Ornamental vs. Edible: The Critical Difference
Many gardeners and foragers mistakenly confuse ornamental sweet peas with their edible garden counterparts, which can have dangerous consequences. While the two are related, belonging to the larger legume family (Fabaceae), they are from different genera. Edible peas belong to the genus Pisum, while ornamental sweet peas are from the genus Lathyrus. It is this fundamental distinction that determines their safety for consumption.
The Risks of Eating Sweet Pea Pods (Lathyrus odoratus)
If you eat sweet pea pods from the ornamental variety, the immediate risk is low for an accidental, small ingestion. However, the true danger lies in regular, prolonged consumption. Sweet pea seeds and pods contain toxic amino acids called lathyrogens, specifically beta-aminopropionitrile (BAPN). This compound interferes with the body's ability to properly form collagen, the main protein in connective tissue.
- Chronic Exposure is the Real Danger: Consuming large quantities of these seeds over an extended period (weeks to months) can lead to lathyrism, a paralytic syndrome. This has historically occurred in famine-stricken areas where desperate populations consumed Lathyrus species as a main food source.
- Effects on Different Systems: Lathyrism can manifest in different ways. Osteolathyrism affects the skeletal system, causing abnormal bone and cartilage growth. Angiolathyrism affects blood vessels, potentially leading to ruptures. Neurolathyrism, associated with another related Lathyrus species, specifically affects the nervous system, but the takeaway is clear: repeated consumption of ornamental sweet peas is extremely dangerous.
Symptoms of Sweet Pea Poisoning
Accidental, one-time ingestion of a small amount of an ornamental sweet pea pod or seed may cause mild stomach upset due to its bitterness. The severe symptoms of lathyrism only appear after long-term consumption and may include:
- Paralysis
- Slow and weak pulse
- Breathing difficulties
- Convulsions
- Muscle weakness and tremors
How to Tell Your Peas Apart: A Guide for Gardeners
To prevent a dangerous mix-up, it is crucial to accurately identify your plants. Here are some key differences between ornamental sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) and edible garden peas (Pisum sativum):
| Feature | Ornamental Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus) | Edible Garden Pea (Pisum sativum) |
|---|---|---|
| Stems | Slightly flattened, winged, and rough in texture | Round in cross-section and more succulent |
| Leaves | Generally smaller, oval-shaped leaflets | Typically larger leaflets, with some having pale markings |
| Flowers | Large, fragrant, and come in a wide variety of colors (pink, purple, white) | Smaller, less prominent, and often white or light pink |
| Pods | Shorter, skinnier, often furry, and grey-green | Longer, broader, smoother, shiny, and bright green |
| Edibility | Toxic and not for consumption | Safe and delicious, especially varieties like snow peas and snap peas |
What to Do If You've Eaten Sweet Pea Pods
If you have accidentally consumed a small amount of ornamental sweet pea seeds or pods, you will likely experience no immediate, severe symptoms, though some people report mild stomach upset. The real danger is in repeated ingestion over time. However, it is always best to be cautious.
Actionable steps to take:
- Do not panic. Small, accidental ingestion is unlikely to cause serious harm.
- Contact a poison control center immediately if you have any concerns, especially if a child or pet has ingested them.
- Monitor for symptoms. Watch for signs of illness such as stomach upset, nausea, or dizziness.
- Confirm the plant's identity. Take photos of the plant, including stems, leaves, flowers, and pods, to show an expert or reference reliable botanical sources.
Planting and Growing Recommendations
To avoid confusion entirely, consider proper garden planning and labeling. Never plant ornamental sweet peas directly next to edible peas. A significant physical separation can prevent accidental harvesting. Use clear labels that specify the plant as either "Ornamental Sweet Pea" or "Edible Garden Pea".
This simple practice is an effective way to protect yourself and others from a potentially dangerous gardening mistake. Remember that the flowers of ornamental sweet peas are beautiful and fragrant, but all parts of the plant, including the seeds and pods, must be treated as toxic.
Conclusion
Understanding what happens if I eat sweet pea pods is a matter of distinguishing between the toxic ornamental varieties (Lathyrus odoratus) and their safe, edible cousins (Pisum sativum). While a small, accidental taste is unlikely to cause harm, consuming large quantities over time can lead to the debilitating condition of lathyrism. By learning the key visual differences and practicing clear garden labeling, you can enjoy your garden safely and with peace of mind. Prioritize education and caution to prevent a simple gardening mistake from becoming a serious health risk.
Additional Resources
- The Old Farmer's Almanac: Sweet Pea Flowers: Planting, Growing, and Caring for Sweet Peas - https://www.almanac.com/plant/sweet-peas
- Gardening Know How: Can You Eat Sweet Peas – Are Sweet Pea Plants Toxic - https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/sweet-pea/are-sweet-pea-plants-toxic.htm
