Lathyrus odoratus 'Cathy'
sweet pea 'Cathy'
'Cathy' is a vigorous annual climber to 2m, with grey-green foliage and long-stalked racemes of up to four fragrant flowers 4.5cm wide, with ruffled creamy-white petals, opening from summer to early autumn
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Cream | Green Grey Silver | ||
Autumn | Cream | Green Grey Silver | ||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Climbing
- Potentially harmful
- Pods and seeds are not edible. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Lathyrus can be annuals or herbaceous or evergreen perennials, mostly climbing, with pinnate leaves ending in a tendril, and showy pea-like flowers, fragrant in some species
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in humus-rich, fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light dappled shade. Incorporate well-rotted organic manure before planting and apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks when in growth. Deadhead regularly. See sweetpea cultivation for further information
Propagation
Propagate by seed. Sow in a cold frame in early autumn, early spring or in-situ in mid-spring. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Patio and container plants
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead regularly and cut back after flowering
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews, Fusarium wilt and sweet pea viruses
Get involved
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