Lathyrus niger aka Black Pea
Taxonomy
Lathyrus niger, also known as black pea, blackening flat pea, and black bitter vetch, is a rare perennial legume native to Europe. This upright plant can grow up to 90cm tall and features robust, wingless, branched stems. Its leaves consist of 3-6 pairs of elliptical leaflets without tendrils. In late spring and early summer, L. niger produces purplish flowers that gradually turn blue with age. These flowers appear in sprays of four to ten and are followed by black pods containing 6-8 seeds. Its common name, black pea, is derived from the plant's foliage, which blackens as it dies.
It is important not to confuse the seeds of L. niger with edible 'black peas' from Pisum sativum, as Lathyrus species' seeds are toxic and can cause Lathyrism, a disease characterized by collagen synthesis interference. To cultivate L. niger as a houseplant, regular watering is required for optimal growth. It thrives in long-lasting, direct light and should be positioned within one foot of a window. Well-draining soil is preferred, and gentle, organic fertilizer can be applied during the peak growing season.
Common names
Black Pea, Blackening Flat Pea, Black Bitter VetchHow to care for Black Pea
Water
Black Pea should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Black Pea loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Black Pea thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Black Bitter Vetch.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Lathyrus Genus

Lathyrus inconspicuus Inconspicuous Pea

Lathyrus annuus Fodder Pea

Lathyrus angulatus Slender Wild Pea
Lathyrus davidii

Lathyrus vestitus Pacific Pea

Lathyrus ochrus Cyprus Vetch

Lathyrus rotundifolius Round Leaf Vetchling

Lathyrus odoratus Sweet Pea
