Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' (White Everlasting Pea) — Perennial

Overview

Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' is a perennial in the genus Lathyrus, part of the Fabaceae family. It typically grows around 2.0 m tall. Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, trellises and fences. It is native to Europe.

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

A perennial climber native to Europe, Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' is selected for its white pea-flowers and a mild fragrance that comes into its own on warm summer days. It typically reaches about 2.0 m and is used where height and floral screens are required. Flowering runs from June to August. Give it a sunny aspect and well-drained soil — it will tolerate sandy, loamy or clay ground so long as drainage is adequate; soils described as moist but well-drained suit it best. The plant is fully hardy (H7) in the UK and corresponds to USDA zones 5–9, so it withstands cold winters without special winter protection. Because it is a climbing pea, provide a trellis, fence or other vertical support and allow stems to weave through the structure as they grow. In the garden it works across borders where height is needed, on trellises to screen a view, or along fences where the white, mildly fragrant flowers can be enjoyed at close range. Position it where the summer blooms can be seen and smelled at eye level and allow room for the stems to reach their natural 2.0 m height so the display is uninterrupted during June to August.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lathyrus

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

Plant details

Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Height: 2.0 m
Suggested uses: Borders, trellises, fences
Native to: Europe
Fragrance: Mildly fragrant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil; supports climbing with trellis or support
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth
Propagation: Seed, division

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl'?

Prefers well-drained soil; supports climbing with trellis or support.

Where is the best place to plant Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl'?

Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' need?

Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' 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 albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl'?

Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.

How big does Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' grow?

Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' reaches a height of 2.0 m.

Is Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' hardy in the UK?

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