Lathyrus alatus
Lathyrus alatusfam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 433D — Lathyrus alatus
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IOverview
Overview
Lathyrus alatus, commonly known as the winged pea, is a perennial vine and herb native to regions including Amur, Chita, Inner Mongolia, Khabarovsk, Korea, Manchuria, Primorye, and Albania. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil, preferring a pH of 7–7.5. Its edible parts include leaves and seeds, making it valuable for culinary use. One distinctive feature is its winged pods, which help disperse the seeds. The plant can grow up to 0.6 meters in height, adding ornamental value to gardens while also providing food sources.
Quick answers
What is Lathyrus alatus?
Lathyrus alatus, commonly known as the winged pea, is a perennial vine and herb native to regions including Amur, Chita, Inner Mongolia, Khabarovsk, Korea, Manchuria, Primorye, and Albania. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil, preferring a pH of 7–7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Lathyrus alatus thrives in moist conditions and prefers light to heavy soils with a pH of 7-7.5. It is hardy in temperate regions and can be found naturally in Amur, Chita, Inner Mongolia, Khabarovsk, Korea, Manchuria, Primorye, and Albania. This perennial vine or herb grows up to 0.6 meters tall and requires moderate light. For cultivation, ensure the soil is well-draining but retains moisture; it can tolerate various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils. Propagate through seed or division in spring. Harvest leaves and seeds for edible use.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Vine, Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Lathyrus alatus for the first time
7steps
Start with Skip as a simple, low-maintenance vine for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small patch of light soil and a trellis or support system.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring when the ground is workable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 7-7.5), and mix in some compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds about 1 cm deep and 30 cm apart; or start indoors a month before planting outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize once in early spring with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune vines to maintain shape and encourage new growth; harvest leaves and seeds for culinary use as needed.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leaves and seeds of Lathyrus alatus are edible. The leaves can be eaten fresh or cooked, while the seeds are typically dried before consumption. Both parts are native to regions including Amur, Chita, Inner Mongolia, Khabarovsk, Korea, Manchuria, Primorye, and Albania.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
28 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
28 native · 2 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 28 native· 2 introduced
Europe7 regions
native (6)AlbaniaFranceGreeceItalyPortugalSpain
introduced (1)Cyprus
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaPalestineSouth KoreaTurkey
Africa4 regions
native (4)AlgeriaLibyaMoroccoTunisia
Broader regions
native:Chita, Khabarovsk, Primorye, East Aegean Is., Kriti, Turkey-in-Europe, Yugoslavia, Amur
introduced:Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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