About

Restormel' is a large-flowered Spencer cultivar with lightly-aromatic flowers of reddish-orange borne through summer.

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
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
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 usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
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. Incorporate well-rotted organic manure before planting and apply a general liquid fertiliser every two weeks when in growth. See sweetpea cultivation
PruningFor a long and regular supply of blooms, cut flowers frequently, before they produce seed pods
PropagationPropagate by seed. Sow in a cold frame in early autumn or early 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