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Climber Wall Shrub

Lathyrus latifolius
  • RHS AGM
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

broad-leaved everlasting pea

A vigorous climbing herbaceous perennial to 2m, with winged stems and paired grey-green leaflets bearing tendrils. Flowers 2-3cm in width, vivid purplish-pink, in racemes of 5-11

Other common names
everlasting pea
hardy sweet pea
see moreperennial pea

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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Pink Green Grey Silver
Autumn Pink Green Grey Silver
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Climbing
Potentially harmful
Pods 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
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

Name status

Correct

Plant range
C&S Europe & N Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Can be grown as a climber or allowed to scramble over banks and slopes. It copes with sun or partial shade in fertile well-drained soil. See sweetpea cultivation for further information

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wall side borders
  • Banks and slopes
  • Climber and wall shrubs
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

Cut back to ground level in autumn

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, slugs and snails

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews, Fusarium wilt and sweet pea viruses

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