Phasey Bean (Macroptilium lathyroides)

FamilyFabaceae
Scientific nameMacroptilium lathyroides
Common name (English)Phasey Bean
Common name (Malay)/
Identified asPioneer plant on Project M.A.R.S.’s land

Macroptilium lathyroides, commonly known as phasey bean or lathyrus pea, is a perennial leguminous herb in the Fabaceae family. Native to tropical America, it is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions as a cover crop, forage plant, and soil-improving legume due to its nitrogen-fixing ability. Traditionally, it has been valued for pasture improvement, erosion control, and providing nutritious fodder for livestock. With its agricultural, ecological, and soil-enhancing significance, Macroptilium lathyroides remains an important species in sustainable farming, agroforestry, and tropical pasture management.