tuberous sweet pea, tuberous vetchling
Etymology: Lathyrus: from the Greek lathyros, an old name for "pea"
Plants: erect, perennial, to 32" tall forb; stems angled, wingless; rhizomes with small tubers
Leaves: 2 leaflets with a tendril at the end; symmetrical, lance-shaped, leaf-like appendages at base of the stalk
Flowers: red to purple, 5-parted, 1/2" long; inflorescence a dense, long-stalked cluster (raceme) of 2-10 stalked flowers
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Conservation Status: Introduced - escaped
WIS DNR-Bureau of Endangered Resources: Detailed information on Wisconsin invasive species including decription, habitats, control methods USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc.