Marchigiana Cicerchia (Lathyrus sativus)

Cicerchia Marchigiana (Lathyrus sativus) : The cicerchia is an ancient legume native to Asia, now traditional in many parts of Italy thanks to its extreme hardiness and minimal water requirements. It requires minimal water and can be grown in dryland. It has an excellent flavor and keeps well after harvest.
It was once used as animal feed, a practice now abandoned: it contains a toxin that causes lathyrism, a neurodegenerative disease. Be careful, it has only been found in some areas affected by famine, when consumption was very intense, as it was the only legume available (it is known to grow where no other legume can). It is commonly consumed in many countries, even particularly arid ones, so there's no need to be alarmed.

*= Very low, does not require irrigation

**= Low, also suitable for hot and arid areas, water only in case of prolonged drought

***= Reduced, one of the least demanding varieties of the species, suitable for areas with sporadic rainfall, irrigate only in case of prolonged drought

****= Tolerant to water stress, requires moderate irrigation, suitable for low-water consumption gardens.

Unfortunately, until the guide is published, this is just a rough guideline to avoid confusion. Dryland farming requires cultivation techniques suited to the soil and soil conditions. All varieties have been acclimated in Italy.