Perennial Sweet Pea
Lathyrus latifolius
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Pl. EDE2 — Lathyrus latifolius
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IOverview
Overview
Perennial Sweet Pea (Lathyrus latifolius) is a vine that thrives in light to heavy soils with a preference for those of medium texture. Native to regions including Albania, Algeria, and parts of Europe such as Austria, Bulgaria, and France, this plant is known for its edible qualities, with leaves, seeds, and seedpods being consumable. It grows best in soil pH ranging from 5.8 to 7.5 and can reach a height of up to 2 meters. Found across a wide range that includes countries like Greece, Hungary, Italy, and Spain, this perennial is appreciated for its light, dry to moist habitat requirements and hardiness zones 5-9. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to form a vine, contributing to both ornamental and culinary uses.
Quick answers
What is Perennial Sweet Pea?
Perennial Sweet Pea (Lathyrus latifolius) is a vine that thrives in light to heavy soils with a preference for those of medium texture.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Perennial Sweet Pea thrives in a variety of soils—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—and prefers a soil pH between 5.8 and 7.5. It is hardy in temperate regions with zones ranging from 5 to 9. This plant requires light to moderate moisture levels but can tolerate dry conditions. For best growth, provide full sun to partial shade. As a perennial vine, it can reach heights of up to 2 meters, making support necessary for optimal development. Harvest edible parts such as leaves, seeds, and seedpods.
Light
6/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb, Vine
Mature size
2.0 m tall
Soil pH
5.8–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Perennial Sweet Pea for the first time
8steps
Start with Perennial Sweet Pea by ensuring you have the right conditions and care, making it a manageable project for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
A sunny spot in your garden, well-draining soil, and seeds or young plants.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with a pH between 5.8 and 7.5, and well-draining.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors about 6 weeks before planting outside, then transplant carefully.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide support as the vines grow, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain shape. Remove dead leaves and spent flowers regularly.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting support structures, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeedSeedpod
Edible uses: The perennial sweet pea is edible and its leaves, seeds, and seedpods can be consumed. Typically, the seeds are dried before use, while the other parts may be eaten raw or cooked. The plant's native range includes regions such as Albania, Bulgaria, and France.
Other uses:Ground coverNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
23 native · 7 introduced
Distribution
23 native · 7 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 23 native· 7 introduced
Europe13 regions
native (13)AlbaniaAustriaBulgariaFranceGreeceHungaryItalyPolandPortugalRomaniaSpainSwitzerlandUkraine
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Guatemala
Africa3 regions
native (3)AlgeriaMoroccoTunisia
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia
introduced:Minnesota, District of Columbia, British Columbia, Mississippi, Missouri, Michigan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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