About
A nitrogen-fixing annual, climbing by tendrils up to 1.8m high, with leaves composed of two ovate-elliptic green leaflets, and long, strong stems of large, scented, wavy-edged red flowers in summer; some bumblebee species may visit sweet peas.
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
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 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
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 plants at 20-30cm spacing in well-drained but humus-rich, moisture-retentive soil, in full sun or very light dappled shade, with support such as a trellis; for more advice, see sweet pea cultivation
PruningFor a long and regular supply of blooms, cut flowers frequently, before they produce seed pods
PropagationPropagate by seed: in milder areas sow directly where they are to grow in autumn or mid-spring; in colder areas sow in autumn or early spring in containers in a cold frame or unheated glasshouse, and plant out after the final spring frost. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, slugs and snails, and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, leafy gall, Fusarium wilt, foot and root rots, and sweet pea viruses