Λουβάνα, Λάθυρος ο ωχρός
Etymology of Lathyrus ochrus: 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. "Ochrus" derives from the Ancient Greek "ὠχρός" [ochros] and it means "pale, ochre", referring to the colour of its seeds.
There are at least 14 Lathyrus species/taxa growing on their own in the wild Cypriot habitat. There are some additional domesticated species and subspecies growing in gardens.
Lathyrus ochrus in Cyprus is utilized as a vegetable on the kitchen table and it is sold in supermarkets. Normally, Lathyrus ochrus is a cultivated species and does not belong in the wild, unless it escapes from a field, hence beyond a field it will be an extremely rare encounter. It can nevertheless be sometimes found in the wild, having multiplied outside from a garden. It is said to grow up to an altitude of 750 metres, and its flowering period is between March and May.
