Lathyrus latifolius


broad-leaved everlasting pea
L. latifolius is a vigorous climbing herbaceous perennial to 2m, with winged stems and paired grey-green leaflets bearing tendrils. Flowers 2-3cm in width, vivid purplish-pink, in racemes of 5-11
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Pink | Green Grey Silver | ||
Autumn | Pink | Green Grey Silver | ||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Climbing
- Potentially harmful
- Acute ingestion may cause mild stomach upset. Wear gloves and wash hands after 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
Correct
- Plant range
- C&S Europe & N Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Can be grown as a climber or allowed to scramble over banks and slopes. It copes with sun or partial shade in fertile well-drained soil. See sweetpea cultivation for further information
Propagation
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wall side borders
- Banks and slopes
Pruning
Cut back to ground level in autumn
Pests
Diseases
May be affected by powdery mildews, Fusarium wilt and sweet pea viruses
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