The Violet Veil of Spring

Lathyrus vernus (L.) Bernh.
Scientific name:
Lathyrus vernus (L.) Bernh.
Common name:
Spring Vetchling
Family:
Fabaceae
Biological form:
Geofita rizomatosa

Characteristics

Habit: Perennial herb 10–40 cm with erect stems. Leaves pinnate with few pairs of leaflets. Flowers: Purple turning bluish. Fruits: Legumes. Flowering: March–May.

Distribution and habitat

Chorological type: Eurasian. Distribution in Italy: Almost all regions except islands and Puglia. Habitat: Deciduous forests, 500–1800 m.

Etymology

Generic name (Lathyrus): Ancient Greek term for legumes. Specific name (vernus): Means spring.

Uses and properties

Limited traditional medicinal use.

Curiosities

One of the earliest flowering woodland plants.