Unlike their annual cousins, perennial sweet peas (Lathyrus latifolius) return year after year with tall, scrambling vines and clusters of vivid magenta blooms. While they lack fragrance, they make up for it with sheer vigour, long flowering, and their ability to climb fences, arches, and trellises with ease.
 
When to Sow: Sept – Nov or Mar – May
 
HOW TO SOW LATHYRUS LATIFOLIUS:
Sow in trays or pots – Soak seeds for 24 hours before sowing. Sow into moist compost and cover with 1cm of soil. Ideal temp 15–18°c. Germination can take 2–4 weeks. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots.
Sow Direct – Sow into a prepared seed bed 1cm deep, keep well watered until plants are well established. Thin to 30cm – they don't like to be overcrowded.
 
Classification: Hardy Perennial
Expert Level: Easy to Moderate
Germination Time: 2–4 Weeks
Flowering Time: Jun – Sept

Site: Full Sun / Partial Sun
Soil Type: Fertile / Well Drained
Soil Acidity: All Types
Moisture: Moderate (avoid waterlogging)

Care: Provide climbing support. Cut back in autumn or early spring
Use: Garden Borders, Arches, Wildlife Gardens
Harvesting: When blooms are freshly open

Days to Maturity: Approx. 150 Days
Vase Life: 4–5 Days (shorter than annual types)
Height: 150–250cm
Plant Spacing: 30cm