What is the Difference Between Lathyrus odoratus and Pisum sativum?

Lathyrus odoratus and Pisum sativum are both flowering plants belonging to the Fabaceae family, but they have distinct differences. Lathyrus odoratus, commonly known as sweet pea, is an annual herbaceous plant that grows to a height of 3 to 6 feet and has pinnate leaves with 2 leaflets. It is a climbing plant with unique tendrils to twine around supporting structures and is known for its intense fragrance and showy flowers in pink and purple shades. However, its seeds are not edible.

On the other hand, Pisum sativum, commonly known as garden pea, is a legume that serves as a major food crop. The seed pod of Pisum sativum contains several green or yellow peas that are edible. It is also an annual plant with tendrils to twine, and most peas are rabi crops that are sown from October to mid-November. Unlike sweet peas, garden peas do not produce showy flowers and their seeds are edible.

In summary, the main differences between Lathyrus odoratus and Pisum sativum are:

• Lathyrus odoratus is commonly known as sweet pea and has fragrant flowers, while Pisum sativum is known as garden pea and has edible seeds.
• Sweet pea seeds are not edible, whereas garden pea seeds are edible.
• Sweet pea flowers are showy and fragrant, while garden pea flowers are not.

Comparative Table: Lathyrus odoratus vs Pisum sativum

Lathyrus odoratus and Pisum sativum are both flowering plants belonging to the Fabaceae family, but they have distinct differences. Here is a table summarizing their characteristics:

Both plants are annual herbaceous plants with tendrils, and they belong to the Fabaceae family. However, Lathyrus odoratus is grown for its fragrant and showy flowers, while Pisum sativum is a major food crop with edible seeds.