Lathyrus pubescens Hooker & Arnott

Leguminosae

Synonyms

• Lathyrus petiolaris Vogel (1839)

Common names:

Lathyrus pubescens

Description:

Perennial, herbaceous, rhizomatous, climbing, annual stems up to 1 m high. Winter growth with short summer dormancy.

Distribution:

Distribution area similar to L. crassipes.

Habitat:

Frequent in marshes climbing on grass tufts; not in open meadows since needs support to climb. Grows in dry stony soils as well as in humid land near to streams on well drained deep soils.

Use:

Good forage production end of winter-early spring. Strong woody rhizoma gives resistance to drought; vigorous growth and good forage yield. Not resistant to grazing or trampling; good for cut and carry forage. Seed harvest difficult due to shattering.

References:

Izaguirre & Beyhaut (1998)