As a perennial, this plant reproduces itself over many years, spreading out from the point it was introduced, especially in damp grassy areas.

Lathyrus pratensis is also a host plant for ovipositioning of the wood white butterfly (Leptidea sinapis).

[4] Meadow vetchling is a perennial plant with a limp, unwinged stem that grows to 25 to 60 cm (10 to 24 in) and is erect and hairy.

The leaf blades are pinnate with a single pair of broad lanceolate leaflets with blunt tips, entire margins and a terminal unbranched tendril.

Its typical habitat is rough grassy places, broad-leaved woodland, forest margins, hedgerows and banks where it uses its tendrils to clamber over other vegetation.