Earthnut Pea (Lathyrus tuberosus)

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

Lathyrus tuberosus is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and starchy, it is delicious when baked with a flavour that is somewhat like a sweet potato. — Root - cooked or raw.; Sweet and starchy, it is delicious when baked with a flavour that is somewhat like a sweet potato.; Taste trials consistently place this root very highly, it is certainly one of our favourites.; Unfortunately, yields are rather low and so the plant is only worthwhile growing as a taste treat, not as a staple crop.

Habitat & North American Range

Cornfields and hedgerows, avoiding acid soils. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)