Lathyrus latifolius 'Rose Queen' (Rose Queen Everlasting Pea) — Perennial

Overview

Lathyrus latifolius 'Rose Queen' is a perennial in the genus Lathyrus, part of the Q44448 family. It typically grows around 2.0 m tall. Lathyrus latifolius 'Rose Queen' 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 'Rose Queen' is a perennial pea valued for its summer flowering and light scent. It produces purplish-pink blooms from June to August and can be trained to about 2.0 m on supports. Grow it in full sun in sandy, loamy or clay soils that are moist but well-drained. It suits trellises, fences and the rear of borders.

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 European native, Lathyrus latifolius 'Rose Queen' is a herbaceous perennial in the pea family grown for summer flowers and a mild fragrance. Plants are typically used where height and vertical cover are needed; once established they can be trained onto trellises and fences or planted at the back of mixed borders to reach roughly 2.0 m. Site it in full sun and choose a soil that drains well — the cultivar performs in sandy, loamy or clay soils provided they remain moist but not waterlogged. It is fully hardy (H7) in the UK and also commonly grown in USDA zones 5–9; winter protection is rarely required in most British gardens. Water through dry spells in the first season to help roots establish, then reduce frequency as the plant matures. Flowering runs from June to August, producing a succession of mildly fragrant blooms that sit above the foliage and make it useful where scent and summer colour are wanted on vertical structures. Position plants so the flower display can be appreciated at eye level on a trellis or along a fence line.

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 'Rose Queen' 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 'Rose Queen'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil; supports climbing with trellis or fence; drought tolerant once established
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth
Propagation: Seed, Division

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Lathyrus latifolius 'Rose Queen'?

Prefers well-drained soil; supports climbing with trellis or fence; drought tolerant once established.

Where is the best place to plant Lathyrus latifolius 'Rose Queen'?

Lathyrus latifolius 'Rose Queen' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Lathyrus latifolius 'Rose Queen' need?

Lathyrus latifolius 'Rose Queen' 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.