Lathyrus is a genus of mostly climbing annual or herbaceous perennial plants in the Fabaceae family, with around 160 accepted species. They are native to parts of Europe, North and South America, Asia and East Africa where they are found in temperate regions. They have pinnate leaves ending with a tendril used for climbing and scrambling, and often fragrant, showy pea-like flowers. Several species are grown in cultivation and there is a wide variety of cultivars and hybrids available.