Lathyrus japonicas
Although ‘Nationally scarce’ due to its limited habitat, this pea grows in abundance on Chesil, especially towards the Western end.
Its purple and white pea flowers, May – August, are later followed by 6cm long pea pods. Its seeds can survive for many years rolling around in the sea, germinating only when washed ashore and its hard outer coating wares away.
Sea pea in flower and Sea Pea Pods at Moonfleet