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

To ensure optimal growth, the Everlasting Pea prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

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