natural herbs
Slenderstem Peavine
Lathyrus palustris
Herb: Slenderstem Peavine
Latin name: Lathyrus palustris
Family: Leguminosae
Edible parts of Slenderstem Peavine:
Seed - cooked. The fully grown seeds are shelled and cooked as a vegetable. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Young leaves and stems - cooked.Description of the plant:
Plant:
Perennial ClimberHeight:
120 cm(4 feet)
Flowering:
July toAugust
Habitat of the herb:
Fens and damp places in grass or bushes,Propagation of Slenderstem Peavine:
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 the herb:
Fens and damp places in grass or bushes,Medicinal use of Slenderstem Peavine:
None knownKnown hazards of Lathyrus palustris:
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.