Lathyrus cicera (Leguminosae)

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Lathyrus cicera
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The Lathyrus cicera plant species is found in Europe - Mediterranean. It is a member of the Leguminosae family.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Lathyrus cicera
Family:  Leguminosae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  The seed (and possibly the whole plant?) is poisonous unless well cooked[61]. 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)[65, 76]. Great caution is advised.

Mature Height:     Mature Width:

Habitat:  Fields and cultivated places[89].

Cultivation Notes: An easily grown plant, succeeding in any moderately good garden soil but preferring a position in full sun[200]. Plants are cultivated in southern Europe for their edible seed[61]. 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[200]. When removing plant remains at the end of the growing season, it is best to only remove the aerial parts of the plant, leaving the roots in the ground to decay and release their nitrogen.

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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