Lathyrus niger, commonly known as Black Pea or Black Bitter Vetch, is a perennial herb that is part of the legume family. It is native to a variety of habitats across Europe, including broad-leaved woodlands, forest margins, and woodland clearings. This plant typically grows to a height of 12-31 inches (30-80 cm) with erect, self-supporting stems. Its pinnate leaves consist of four to eight pairs of narrow elliptical leaflets, creating a delicate, feathery appearance. The flowers of Lathyrus niger are initially red but mature to a blue hue as they age, blooming in June and July. They are pollinated by bees and are modest in size, contributing to the plant’s understated charm.

Black Pea is valued for its ability to thrive in shaded environments, making it suitable for woodland gardens and shaded borders. It is also used to enhance biodiversity as it is a nitrogen-fixing plant, improving soil fertility. The plant’s foliage turns black as it senesces, which is a distinctive feature. However, it is important to note that the seeds contain toxic compounds that can cause lathyrism if ingested, so they should not be consumed. In cultivation, Black Pea prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate partial shade to full shade conditions. While not commonly used for ornamental purposes, its ecological benefits make it a candidate for naturalized plantings and restoration projects.CC BY-SA 4.0