Lathyrus quinquenervius - (Miq.)Litvin.
(Miq.)Litvin.
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Nimble_crabs
gbif· cc-by-nc
Nimble_crabs
gbif· cc-by-nc
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Description
Lathyrus quinquenervius is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.
Edible Uses
Seed - cooked. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Leaves and young stems - cooked.
Known Hazards
Although no records of toxicity have been found for this plant, the seed of some species in this genus contain a toxic amino acid that can cause a severe disease of the nervous system known as 'lathyrism' if they are eaten in large amounts (although small quantities are said to be nutritious). Great caution is advised.
Distribution
E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.
Where It Grows
TEMPERATE ASIA: Russian Federation-Eastern Siberia (Eastern Siberia), Mongolia, Russian Federation-Far East (Far East)
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors at least in the milder parts of the country. Plants succeed in wet soils in Japan and so it is worth trying them in such conditions in Britain. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. An easily grown plant, succeeding in any moderately good garden soil but preferring a position in full sun. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.
Propagation
Pre-soak the seed for 24 hours in warm water and then sow in early spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. If you have sufficient seed, then it can also be sown in situ in mid spring. Division in spring. It may not transplant well so care should be taken.
