Lathyrus latifolius (broad-leaved everlasting pea) — perennial herbaceous climber

Overview

Lathyrus latifolius is a perennial herbaceous climber in the genus Lathyrus, part of the Q44448 family. It typically grows around 2.0 m tall. Lathyrus latifolius grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, trellises, fences and ground cover. It is native to C&S Europe & N Africa.

About

Lathyrus latifolius is a perennial herbaceous climber that typically reaches about 2.0 m and flowers from June to August. It favours full sun and tolerates sandy, loamy or clay soils provided they are well drained or at least moist but not waterlogged. Plant it against trellises or fences or let it scramble through back borders; pods and seeds are not edible so wear gloves when handling. Suitable for UK gardens where a tall summer-flowering climber is needed.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lathyrus latifolius

About the genus

Lathyrus is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family Fabaceae, and contains approximately 160 species. Commonly known as peavines or vetchlings, they are native to temperate areas, with a breakdown of 52 species in Europe, 30 species in North America, 78 in Asia, 24 in tropical East Africa, and 24 in temperate South America. There are annual and perennial species which may be climbing or bushy.

Wikipedia contributors, "Lathyrus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lathyrus

In the garden

Lathyrus latifolius is a perennial herbaceous climber native to central and southern Europe and North Africa and reliably reaches about 2.0 m. It produces its flowers from June to August and is grown for summer display on vertical structures. The species belongs to the genus Lathyrus and is cultivated where a long-flowering climbing pea is required. Site it in full sun and provide well-drained ground; it tolerates sandy, loamy and clay soils so long as they are not waterlogged and can be kept moist. In UK hardiness terms it is H7, fully hardy, and corresponds to USDA zones 5–9, so it tolerates winter exposure across most British gardens. Give a sturdy trellis, fence or similar support to carry stems to their full 2.0 m height. Use Lathyrus latifolius at the back of mixed borders, on fences and trellises, or as a flowering ground cover where stems can spread. Note that pods and seeds are not edible; wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling and, for pet safety and emergency contacts, consult the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants. Tie in young shoots to supports as they climb to avoid wind damage.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lathyrus

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Lathyrus latifolius size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial herbaceous climber
Height: 2.0 m
Suggested uses: borders, trellises, fences, ground cover
Native to: C&S Europe & N Africa
Toxicity: Pods and seeds are not edible. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Pods and seeds are not edible. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lathyrus latifolius

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; can tolerate partial shade; avoid waterlogged conditions
Pruning: Cut back hard after flowering to encourage fresh growth and maintain shape
Propagation: By seed or semi-ripe cuttings in summer

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Lathyrus latifolius?

Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; can tolerate partial shade; avoid waterlogged conditions.

Where is the best place to plant Lathyrus latifolius?

Lathyrus latifolius prefers full sun.

What soil does Lathyrus latifolius need?

Lathyrus latifolius is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Lathyrus latifolius?

Cut back hard after flowering to encourage fresh growth and maintain shape.

How big does Lathyrus latifolius grow?

Lathyrus latifolius reaches a height of 2.0 m.

Is Lathyrus latifolius hardy in the UK?

Lathyrus latifolius has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Lathyrus latifolius?

By seed or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.

Is Lathyrus latifolius toxic?

Pods and seeds are not edible. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Pods and seeds are not edible. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants.

More in the Lathyrus genus

Browse all Lathyrus →