An easily grown plant, succeeding in any moderately good garden soil. Prefers a deep moist well-drained soil in a cool position. Prefers a position in full sun, growing well on hot sunny banks. The seed remains viable for 4 - 5 years in sea water. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.

The immature seeds are eaten raw or cooked like peas. Mature seeds are cooked or sprouted and used in salads. A delightful vegetable. A famine food. Very bitter. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Young seedpods - raw or cooked when less than 25mm long. A sweet flavor. Young plant - raw or cooked. Use young shoots that are less than 25cm long. The roasted seed is a coffee substitute.

Pre-soak the seed for 24 hours in warm water and then sow in early spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. If you have sufficient seed, then it can also be sown in situ in mid spring. Division in spring. It may not transplant well so care should be taken.

Shingle beaches and sand dunes.