Lathyrus ochroleucas
Cream Peavine

Uses

Toxic parts

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)^[1]^[2]. Great caution is advised.

Edible uses

Notes

Seed - cooked^[3]^[4]^[5]^[6]^[7]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Root - cooked^[7]. Used like potatoes, they can be stored in pits in the garden^[7].

Root

Unknown use

Seed

Unknown use

Material uses

There are no material uses listed for Lathyrus ochroleucas.

Medicinal uses(Warning!)

The plant has been used in the treatment of stomach aches^[7].

Unknown part

Stomachic

Ecology

Ecosystem niche/layer

Ecological Functions

Nitrogen fixer

Forage

Nothing listed.

Shelter

Nothing listed.

Propagation

Pre-soak the seed for 24 hours in warm water and then sow in early spring in a cold frame^[8]. 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^[8].

Division in spring. It may not transplant well so care should be taken^[8].

Practical Plants is currently lacking information on propagation instructions of Lathyrus ochroleucas. Help us fill in the blanks! Edit this page to add your knowledge.

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 in most parts of the country. Since this is a woodland species it should succeed in semi-shade[K]. 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^[8].

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^[8].

Crops

Problems, pests & diseases

Associations & Interactions

There are no interactions listed for Lathyrus ochroleucas. Do you know of an interaction that should be listed here? edit this page to add it.

Polycultures & Guilds

There are no polycultures listed which include Lathyrus ochroleucas.

Descendants

Cultivars

Varieties

None listed.

Subspecies