About
Lathyrus niger, the black pea, is an upright perennial to 90 cm with tough, wingless, branched stems, leaves with 3�6 pairs of elliptic leaflets to 4 cm long and no tendrils. Sprays of 4�10 purplish flowers that turn blue with age appear in late spring and early summer, followed by black seedpods. The foliage turns black as it dies � the origin of its name. A fascinating and distinctive wildflower for a sunny meadow or informal border.
About the genus
Lathyrus, the peas and vetches, can be annuals or herbaceous or evergreen perennials, mostly climbing, with pinnate leaves ending in a tendril and showy, pea-like flowers, fragrant in some species. Popular cottage-garden climbers and border plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toEurope, Africa, Asia
ToxicityPods 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
CultivationGrow in a fertile, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. See sweetpea cultivation for further information
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering and cut back in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, Fusarium wilt and sweet pea viruses