Lathyrus niger aka Black Pea

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.