Lathyrus pubescens — Climbing

Overview

Lathyrus pubescens is a climbing annual biennial in the genus Lathyrus, part of the Fabaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Lathyrus pubescens grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, hanging basket and patio and container plants.

About

Lathyrus pubescens is a climbing annual or biennial cultivar within the Lathyrus genus, known for its deciduous foliage and prominent pea-like flowers. It thrives in full sun and prefers a sheltered aspect, growing best in fertile, moisture-retentive, well-drained soils such as chalk, clay, loam, or sand with a range of pH levels. Suitable for city and courtyard gardens, as well as patios and containers, it offers seasonal interest from spring through to autumn. Propagation is typically by seed sown in pots or directly into the soil during spring or autumn.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lathyrus

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H3

Plant details

Lathyrus pubescens size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Annual Biennial
Habit: Climbing
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Hanging basket, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lathyrus pubescens

Propagation: Propagate by sowing seed in pots or rootrainers in autumn or spring and planting out in April, or sow seed directly into the soil in April. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
Pest resistance: May be susceptible to aphids, slugs, snails and thrips
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to powdery mildews, fusarium wilt, sweetpea viruses

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Lathyrus pubescens?

Lathyrus pubescens prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Lathyrus pubescens need?

Lathyrus pubescens is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Lathyrus pubescens hardy in the UK?

Lathyrus pubescens has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.

How do I propagate Lathyrus pubescens?

Propagate by sowing seed in pots or rootrainers in autumn or spring and planting out in April, or sow seed directly into the soil in April. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice.

More in the Lathyrus genus

Browse all Lathyrus →