Beach Pea, Smallflower beach pea
Lathyrus japonicus
Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae
What it is like
Lathyrus japonicus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Sandy coasts from Alaska to N. California.
W. and N. Europe, E. Asia - China. N. America.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Young plant - raw or cooked. An excellent sustenance.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Nitrogen Fixer: Plants that fix nitrogen in the soil
How it is grown
An easily grown plant, succeeding in any moderately good garden soil. It prefers a deep moist well-drained soil in a cool position. Prefers a position in full sun, growing well on hot sunny banks. The seed remains viable for 4 - 5 years in sea water. 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.
Propagating it: 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.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 3-7
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist
Things to keep in mind
The seed contains a toxic amino-acid which, in large quantities, can cause a very serious disease of the nervous system known as 'lathyrism'. The seed is said to be perfectly safe and very nutritious in small quantities, but should not comprise more than 30% of the diet.