Herb: Bush Vetchling


Latin name: Lathyrus ornatus


Synonyms: Lathyrus eucosmus


Family: Leguminosae



Medicinal use of Bush Vetchling:

The plant has been used to help remove the placenta after child birth. The plant has disinfectant properties, a cold infusion has been used internally and as a wash in the treatment of "deer infection".

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
30 cm
(11 3/4 inch)

Habitat of the herb:

Prairies and plains. Dry open pinewoods, 1500 - 2100 metres in Arizona.

Edible parts of Bush Vetchling:

Seedpods - cooked.

Propagation of the herb:

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.

Cultivation of Bush Vetchling:

Prairies and plains. Dry open pinewoods, 1500 - 2100 metres in Arizona.

Known hazards of Lathyrus ornatus:

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.

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.