Perennial pea - Lathyrus latifolius ‘Rosa Perle’
We’ve written on several occasions about the joys of growing sweet peas, even mentioning and growing the wonderful Tutankhamun pea reportedly found by Howard Carter in Tutankhamun's tomb. We’ve never mentioned, however, the joys of growing perennial sweet peas.
Lathyrus latifolius is sometimes referred to as the everlasting pea and is an enthusiastic climber just like its annual cousin, just perhaps a little less needy. Maintenance is simple: a structure, wires, trellis, or a sturdy shrub, is required for it to scramble up and when flowering is over it can be cut to the ground in autumn. Numerous seed pods are produced which can be collected and turned into plants for friends and relatives.
There are a number of varieties to choose from. Pictured is ‘Rosa Perle’. ‘White Pearl’ is a stunning pure white option whilst the species itself is a bright rose pink. All three carry the RHS award of garden merit. A few other options include ‘Blushing Bride’ a pale pink and white variety and ‘Red Pearl’ with bright magenta blooms. We’ve only just introduced Rosa Perle’ to the garden but wish we’d discovered her years ago.
