Lathyrus japonicus
Lathyrus japonicus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lathyrus japonicus, commonly known as the sea pea, is a resilient perennial legume frequently found inhabiting coastal sand dunes. This hardy plant has adapted remarkably well to saline environments, providing essential stability to sandy shorelines. One of its most notable biological features is the presence of Lathyrus saponin, a specialized chemical compound found within the species. These saponins contribute to the plant's unique chemical profile and play a role in its ecological interactions. Understanding this species offers valuable insights into how coastal flora manage chemical defenses in harsh maritime habitats.
- Synonyms
- Orobus Japonicus
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Lathyrus japonicus is a resilient species known by a diverse array of regional names across different languages. In English-speaking contexts, it is sometimes referred to as Baunagras, while in Poland, it is commonly called Groszek nadmorski. Moving to Germany, the plant is recognized by the name Japanische Platterbse. It also holds specific local identities, such as Jūrmalas dedestiņa in Latvia. Finally, in Denmark, this coastal legume is known as Klit-fladbælg.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lathyrus japonicus is a species that has historically been identified by various botanical names. In many older scientific records, you will find this plant referred to by its synonym, Orobus japonicus. This taxonomic shift reflects the evolving understanding of plant classification and evolutionary lineage over time. Recognizing these synonymous relationships is essential for researchers attempting to track the species across different historical texts. Understanding these naming connections ensures clarity when studying the plant's distribution and biological characteristics.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lathyrus japonicus belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse life found within the botanical world. This specific species is classified under the class Equisetopsida, placing it within a significant evolutionary lineage. Moving through its taxonomic hierarchy, it falls under the order Fabales and the family Fabaceae. Within this framework, the plant is identified as a member of the genus Lathyrus. Understanding these relationships provides essential insight into its biological identity and ecological role.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lathyrus japonicus is a plant species primarily distributed throughout the Asia-Temperate region. Within China, its presence is noted across diverse areas including the North-Central and Southeast territories, as well as the Manchuria region. The species also maintains a significant range across Eastern Asia. Specifically, it can be found growing in the natural landscapes of both Japan and Korea. This wide distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive across various ecological niches in the East Asian continent.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lathyrus japonicus is a distinct herb characterized by its obligatory climbing habit. This plant relies on its ability to ascend to find optimal light and support for its development. While it can reach a maximum height of 1 meter, its stature is notably variable depending on environmental conditions. Individual specimens may be as small as 0.15 meters, though many typically maintain a minimum height of around 0.434 meters. Such flexibility in size allows the species to thrive across diverse ecological niches.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Lathyrus japonicus serves as the botanical source for the identification of a unique chemical compound. Researchers have successfully isolated a new triterpenoid saponin from the whole plant, which they named Lathyrus saponin. This specific trisaccharide glycoside was discovered alongside other known compounds, such as azukisaponins II and V. Through rigorous physicochemical and spectroscopic analysis, the precise molecular structure of the saponin was determined. These findings provide significant insight into the complex chemical profile held within Lathyrus japonicus.