Lathyrus davidii

Lathyrus davidii is a perennial in the pea family, Fabaceae. Its native range spans the Russian Far East, China, Korea, and Japan. It grows in temperate parts of this broad region. Wild plants occur in woods, thickets, and on hill slopes. They also grow along forest edges in northern China. There, records place them below about 5,906 feet [1,800 metres]. This species is not native to Britain or Ireland.

The plant climbs and has tuberous parts below ground. Its reported height reaches about 4 feet [1.2 metres]. These traits suit it to the edges of woodland gardens. It flowers from July to August. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers, and seeds ripen from August to September. The supplied species accounts give no flower colour or leaf details. They also give no mature spread for garden plants.

Plants For A Future describes this species as easy to grow. It accepts most garden soils of reasonable quality. Sandy, loamy, and clay soils all fall within its range. It tolerates mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline conditions. Full sun is the preferred position, though light shade also suits it. Moist soil meets its stated needs. A sunny woodland edge or dappled shade offers a suitable setting. The source lists USDA hardiness zones 5–9.

Root bacteria form nodules and help the plant fix nitrogen. The plant uses some of this nitrogen for growth. Nearby plants may also gain some benefit. Propagation options include seed and spring division. The seed guidance calls for a warm-water soak lasting 24 hours. Sow in a cold frame in early spring. Move seedlings into separate pots once large enough to handle. Plant them out in summer, taking care with their roots. The source warns that transplanting may not go well. Direct sowing in mid-spring is another option when seed is plentiful.

Reported food uses include cooked seeds and cooked young pods. Young growth, including flowers, also has a recorded use in soups. These records do not establish that eating it is safe. Plants For A Future reports no confirmed toxicity records for this species, but urges caution. It lists no known medicinal uses or other uses. Its weed assessment does not flag the plant as weedy.