Etymology: Lathyrus: from the Greek lathyros, an old name for "pea"
Plants: climbing, perennial, 1'-4' long forb; stems often winged
Leaves: pinnately-divided into 2-4 pairs of leaflets with a tendril at the end; asymmetrical, sharp-pointed, leaf-like appendages at the base
Flowers: purple and white, 5-parted, 3/4" long; inflorescence a long-stalked cluster (raceme) of 2-6 stalked flowers; blooms June-July
Fruits: long pod
Habitat: wet to moist; meadows, shores, marshes
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 5, Wetland Indicator = FACW Atlas of the Wisconsin Prairie and Savanna Flora: by T.S. Cochrane & H.H. Iltis: habitat, distribution infomation / flowering and fruiting times USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc.