Yellow-Flowered Pea (Lathyrus aphaca)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Lathyrus aphaca is a ANNUAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from August 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 and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Seed - cooked. Only use when immature, the fully ripe seed can be narcotic in large quantities. The seed is harmless and nutritious when eaten in small quantities. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. — Only use when immature, the fully ripe seed can be narcotic in large quantities.; The seed is harmless and nutritious when eaten in small quantities.; Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry places on sand, gravel and chalk. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)