Grass Vetchling is a
native
annual plant of the UK, typically found growing in chalk grassland, woodland margins and hedgerows, to a mature height of up to 70cm.
Grass Vetchling is named after the grass-like appearance of its narrow leaves. When growing in long grass, this makes it difficult to distinguish, unless the plant is in flower. The Grass Vetchling has very elegant small flowers, with red to deep-pink petals (apart from a concealed white keel). Each is borne singly on a short stalk at the end of a very long and thin leafless branch.
Botanic classification and naming: Grass Vetchling is a member of the Pea (Fabaceae) family. The genus name
'Lathyrus' identifies the plant as a Vetchling and its species name 'nissolia' means 'long-stemmed plant'.
Concerns: This plant, but especially the seed, may contain a toxic amino-acid affecting the nervous system, causing a serious condition affecting muscle control known as 'Lathyrism'.
Benefits: Grass Vetchling has root nodules that host nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These make atmospheric nitrogen available to feed the plant and enrich the soil.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
|