Syn.: Lathyrus albidus Eaton, Lathyrus glaucifolius Beck, Lathyrus ochroleucous Hook., orth. var., Orobus ochroleucus (Hook.) A. Br.
Family: Fabaceae Lindl.

Lathyrus ochroleucus

Distribution: Species of northern part of North America from Alaska to southernmost states of Washington, northern Idaho, northeastern Wyoming, northwestern Nebraska, northern Iowa, Illinois, northern Indiana and Pennsylvania.

Ecology: Moist woodlands, semi-shade to shade, at elevations from sea level to about 2000 m. Blooms in June and July.

Lathyrus ochroleucus

Description: Perennial vine, climbing to about 100 cm high, or just leaning on to surrounding soft vegetation, from a creeping rhizome, stems somewhat flattened. Leaves alternate, compound, 6–10 leaflets, oval, 2.5–5 cm long, hairless, tendril branched to 3 tips; stipules oval, 1–2 cm long. Inflorescence is a 5–10-flowered raceme, from leaf axils; flowers off-white, yellowish white, 12–15 mm long, with a standard, 2 wings and a keel, stamens 10, pistil 1. Fruit is a legume, 2–4 cm long, hairless, 4–6 seeds, considered poisonous.

Threat and protection: Listed endangered in Indiana and New Jersey, threatened in Illinois, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Note: Lathyrus is an ancient Greek word for pea, pulse or legume.

Lathyrus ochroleucus
Lathyrus ochroleucus
Lathyrus ochroleucus
Lathyrus ochroleucus

These images were taken in Canada, Alberta, Calgary, North Weaselhead Natural Environment Park (May 2015).