Lathyrus japonicus var. maritimus
Summary:
beach peaDescription:
Lathyrus japonicus is a trailing or climbing perennial growing to 1.5 m tall. Leaves are compound with 6-12 leaflets with curling tendrils. Flowers vary from reddish-purple to blue, resembling peas. These flowers mature into hairy pods up to 7 cm long with 4-6 mm in diameter seeds.
Cultural Narrative:
Beach pea seeds can be eaten raw or boiled and preserved with sea oil.
Location Description:
Beach pea is found primarily in the Puget Sound and Salish Sea, growing along sandy beaches and dunes immediately adjacent to the coast.