About
A vigorous, climbing annual up to 2m tall with winged stems and leaves comprising two narrowly-lanceolate leaflets up to 3cm long terminating in tendrils. Sprays of 2-3 magenta-pink flowers up to 3cm wide with a large standard petal are borne in summer and followed by seed pods.
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 typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, City and courtyard gardens
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
CultivationNeeds fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light shade, and can be trained up a support, or be allowed to scramble. See sweetpea cultivation for further information
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, Fusarium wilt and sweet pea viruses