Overview

Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' is a perennial in the genus Lathyrus, part of the Q44448 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

Lathyrus latifolius albus or albiflorus or 'White Pearl' is a perennial climbing pea grown for its summer flowers and mild scent. It reaches about 2.0 m and suits sunny sites where it can scramble over supports. Flowers appear in June to August and are mildly fragrant. Plant it where a tall trellis or fence will display the blooms at head height.

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

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

More in the Lathyrus genus

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