Lathyrus latifolius aka Everlasting Pea

Taxonomy

Lathyrus latifolius, also known as the perennial peavine, perennial pea, broad-leaved everlasting-pea, or everlasting pea, is a robust and sprawling herbaceous perennial plant. Belonging to the pea family Fabaceae, it is native to Europe but can also be found in other continents like North America and Australia, often seen along roadsides. This vigorous climbing perennial can grow up to 2 meters in height, with winged stems and paired grey-green leaflets. Its racemes bear clear pink flowers in clusters of up to 11, blooming continuously over a long period. With a trailing and climbing habit, the perennial sweet pea, as it is also called, can reach heights of 6 to 9 feet and have a spread of 3 to 6 feet. When unsupported, it can ramble as a groundcover, growing to about 4 to 8 inches in height. From June to late September, it produces masses of beautiful scentless blossoms in shades of white, pinkish purple, and rose.

Common names

Everlasting Pea, Perennial Pea, Broadleaf Everlasting Pea

How to care for Everlasting Pea

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Everlasting Pea due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Everlasting Pea should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Everlasting Pea loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Everlasting Pea thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Broadleaf Everlasting Pea.

Toxicity

Everlasting Pea is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Region of origin

Everlasting Pea’s native range is S. Europe. Occasionally naturalized in Britain.


More info:
Wikipedia