Bitter Vetch (Lathyrus linifolius montanus)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Lathyrus linifolius montanus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. 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, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet chestnuts. — Used as a vegetable, they are served in the same manner as sweet chestnuts.; Some caution is advised in the use of this seed, see the notes above on toxicity.; Boiled or roasted, they have a sweet flavour and are very nutritious.

Habitat & North American Range

Woods, hedges and thickets in hilly country avoiding chalk. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)