The common flat pea is a legume plant scientifically known as Lathyrus sativus, which belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is an annual herbaceous species that is cultivated for its seeds. This plant is widely distributed across various regions in Asia, Africa, and Europe.
The common flat pea typically grows up to 1 meter in height. It has slender, twining stems with tendrils that aid in climbing or trailing on surrounding vegetation. The leaves are alternately arranged, composed of two leaflets, and equipped with tendrils. The flowers are small and usually white, pink, or purple in color, forming in clusters or racemes. The fruits are elongated pods with a flat shape containing several seeds.
The seeds of the common flat pea are widely consumed and used as a food source in many cultures. However, it is worth noting that excessive consumption of the seeds may lead to a condition called lathyrism. Lathyrism is characterized by paralysis of the lower limbs due to the presence of neurotoxic amino acids, primarily oxalyldiaminopropionic acid (ODAP), in the seeds. For this reason, the consumption of the common flat pea seeds is often advised to be limited or balanced with other dietary sources.
In addition to being used for human consumption, the common flat pea is also utilized as feed for livestock. The plant has nitrogen-fixing capabilities, making it valuable in agricultural practices as it improves soil fertility. Furthermore, due to its attractive flowers, the common flat pea is occasionally cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping.
