About
Flower stems are very long, to 35cm, bearing 3-4 large flowers, 6cm in diameter. 'John Gray' is a free-floweringsweet pea, with vigorous growth to over 2m high. The round, wavy standards and spreading, rounded and waved wings, are pale pink on a white ground; scented.
About the genus
Lathyrus 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
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub, Annual Biennial
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens
FragranceFlower
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 humus-rich, fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light dappled shade. Incorporate well-rotted organic manure before planting and apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks when in growth. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. See sweetpea cultivation for further information
PruningDeadhead regularly and cut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed. Sow in a cold frame in early autumn, early spring or in-situ in mid-spring. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, Fusarium wilt and sweet pea viruses