Lathyrus (wild pea) — Climbing

Overview

Lathyrus is a climbing annual biennial in the genus Lathyrus, part of the Fabaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Lathyrus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, hanging basket and patio and container plants.

About

Lathyrus, commonly known as wild pea or vetchling, is a genus of climbing annual and biennial plants in the Fabaceae family. These deciduous climbers have pinnate leaves ending in tendrils and produce prominent pea-like flowers, some with a pleasant fragrance. They thrive in full sun with a sheltered aspect, preferring fertile, moisture-retentive, well-drained soils across a range of types and pH levels. Suitable for city gardens, courtyards, and containers, Lathyrus is hardy to UK zone H3 and offers seasonal interest from spring through autumn.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lathyrus

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H3

Plant details

Lathyrus size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Annual Biennial
Habit: Climbing
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Hanging basket, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lathyrus

Propagation: Propagate by sowing seed in pots or rootrainers in autumn or spring and planting out in April, or sow seed directly into the soil in April. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
Pest resistance: May be susceptible to aphids, slugs, snails and thrips
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to powdery mildews, fusarium wilt, sweetpea viruses

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Lathyrus?

Lathyrus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Lathyrus need?

Lathyrus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Lathyrus hardy in the UK?

Lathyrus has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.

How do I propagate Lathyrus?

Propagate by sowing seed in pots or rootrainers in autumn or spring and planting out in April, or sow seed directly into the soil in April. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice.

More in the Lathyrus genus

Browse all Lathyrus →