Lathyrus aphaca

Λάθυρος της αφάκα

Etymology of Lathyrus aphaca: Lathyrus comes from the Ancient Greek word "Lathyros" [Λάθυρος], from the prefix "λα-" [la-] meaning "extremely," and the suffix "-θυρος" [–thyros] meaning "passionate", referring to the ancient belief in the plant's supposed aphrodisiacal powers. "Aphaca" was the name of an ancient town, today Afqa in Lebanon.

There are at least 14 Lathyrus taxa growing on their own in the wild Cypriot habitat. There are some additional domesticated species and subspecies growing in gardens.

Lathyrus aphaca has white to yellow colour. Its leaves are reduced to unbranched tendrils with acute apex. Lathyrus aphaca grows all around Cyprus up to an altitude of 975 metres. It blooms from January until May.