Lathyrus odoratus
Lathyrus odoratus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lathyrus odoratus, commonly known as the sweet pea, is a popular ornamental flowering plant frequently grown for its fragrant blooms. While aesthetically pleasing, certain parts of the plant, specifically the seeds, contain hazardous biological components. These seeds harbor the neurotoxic chemical 2-(3-amino-3-carboxypropyl)-isoxazolin-5-one, also referred to as ACI. Ingestion of these preparations can lead to severe neurological impairments or motor dysfunction. Therefore, caution must be exercised when handling or consuming any part of this species.
- Synonyms
- Lathyrus Odoratus Var. Siculus · Lathyrus Odoratus Var. Zeylanicus · 11 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Lathyrus odoratus is a versatile plant known by a diverse array of names across different languages and regions. In various Spanish-speaking areas, it is frequently referred to as either Chorreque or Chícharo de flor. Botanically, it is also recognized by the descriptive name Cicerchia odorosa. Moving into German-speaking cultures, the plant is commonly called Duft-Wicke. It is also celebrated as the Duftende Platterbse, reflecting its sweet and inviting fragrance.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lathyrus odoratus is a diverse species known by several botanical synonyms that reflect its varied forms. Among these classifications is Lathyrus cyprius, a name historically linked to the plant's lineage. The species also encompasses specific varieties such as Lathyrus odoratus f. pleniflorus and the distinct white-flowered Lathyrus odoratus var. albus. Further color variations are documented through Lathyrus odoratus var. ater and the soft-hued Lathyrus odoratus var. carneus. Together, these taxonomic relationships highlight the rich morphological spectrum found within this beloved sweet pea.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lathyrus odoratus is a fascinating organism that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Fabales, showcasing its unique evolutionary lineage. It falls under the family Fabaceae, a group known for its diverse and important botanical members. Ultimately, this beautiful species is identified by its specific genus, Lathyrus.
| 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 odoratus is widely distributed across several key regions, including the vast continent of Africa and the Macaronesia islands. Within this range, the plant can be found growing in the unique ecosystems of the Canary Islands and Madeira. Its presence is particularly noted throughout Northern Africa, where it thrives in diverse landscapes. Specifically, the species is established in the territories of Algeria, Libya, and Morocco. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to the varied climates found across these Mediterranean and Atlantic locales.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lathyrus odoratus is a charming herb characterized by its distinctive growth form. To thrive and reach its full potential, this plant relies on an obligatory climbing habit to scale supports. Depending on the specific cultivar and environment, its stature typically ranges from a minimum of 0.5 meters to a height of 0.8 meters. In ideal conditions, these climbers can stretch to reach a maximum height of 2 meters. This versatile size range makes it a flexible choice for various garden landscapes.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Lathyrus odoratus contains a specific amino acid known as 2-(3-amino-3-carboxypropyl)-isoxazolin-5-one, which exhibits significant neurotoxic activity. This potent compound, referred to as ACI, is produced within the plant through complex enzymatic processes. Research indicates that the biosynthesis of ACI is derived from S-adenosyl-L-methionine and isoxazolin-5-one. Scientific studies have focused on describing the specific properties of the enzymes responsible for creating this neurotoxin. Understanding these chemical pathways is essential for characterizing the biological impact of the plant.
Compounds
Lathyrus odoratus is known to contain the neurotoxic amino acid 2-(3-amino-3-carboxypropyl)-isoxazolin-5-one, commonly referred to as ACI. Research has confirmed that this specific compound is derived enzymatically within the plant. The biosynthetic process involves the transformation of S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) and isoxazolin-5-one into the toxin. Studies have focused on describing the unique properties of the enzymes responsible for this production. Understanding these biochemical pathways is essential for grasping how ACI is synthesized in the species.
Conditions
Lathyrus odoratus lectin demonstrates a specific capacity to influence mitogenic activation within human lymphocytes. This biological effect is observed across various cell groups, including T-enriched lymphocytes and non-T lymphocytes. Furthermore, the lectin interacts with unfractionated lymphocytes, showing responses similar to mixtures of the specific subpopulations. The research indicates that the stimulation of these human lymphocytes is most effective when both T and non-T populations are present. Ultimately, the plant's lectin acts as a mitogen that affects these diverse lymphocyte types.
Preparations
Lathyrus odoratus is prepared as seeds to be utilized as a potential source of low-cost protein. Analysis shows that these seeds contain a significant protein content of approximately 42.8%. In dietary studies, the Lathyrus odoratus seed is prepared as a component of a complete diet for broiler and Japanese quail chicks. However, feeding these prepared seeds can lead to toxicity and the development of lathyrism in avian species. The research indicates that the seeds are processed in this manner for nutritional investigation despite their potential toxic effects.
Parts used
Lathyrus odoratus contains specific seeds that have been identified as carrying both toxic and biologically active properties. Research indicates that the consumption of these seeds can induce lathyrism in avian species, leading to severe symptoms such as leg paralysis and decreased weight gain. Beyond toxicity, scientists have successfully isolated a mitogenic lectin from the saline extract of the plant's seeds. This isolated lectin demonstrates the ability to agglutinate human erythrocytes and influence lymphocyte activity. Consequently, the seed of Lathyrus odoratus remains a subject of significant study due to its complex biochemical impact.