Meadow Vetchling
Lathyrus pratensis
Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae
What it is like
Lathyrus pratensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. 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.
Height (m): 1.2
Where it is found
Grassland, scrub and hedgerows, avoiding acid soils.
Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to N. Africa, Siberia and the Himalayas.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The seeds are used as a resolvent in Spain.
Resolvent: Breaks down tumors. This might be placed under antitumor.
Other
Rating:
The plant is said to repel mice.
Repellent: Plants that are said to deter but not necessarily kill various mammals, birds, insects etc.
Nitrogen Fixer: Plants that fix nitrogen in the soil
How it is grown
An easily grown plant, succeeding in any moderately good garden soil but preferring a position in full sun. Succeeds on wet soils. 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: Meadow; Hedgerow; Bog Garden;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 4-8
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist, wet
Things to keep in mind
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.