About
A vigorous bushy annual bearing long-stemmed racemes of about 4 white flowers in summer and early autumn.
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 typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
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 a fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Incorporate organic matter into the soil before planting and feed with a balanced, liquid fertiliser once a month when in growth. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. See sweetpea cultivation for further information
PruningRemove after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown 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