Lathyrus vestitus

Also Known As

Pacific Pea

Plant type

perennial, vine

size

H: 6'-10'
W: 12"

planting zones

9a-10b

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Lathyrus vestitus plant details

Lathyrus vestitus is a broadleaf deciduous or semi-evergreen perennial vine with green foliage. In spring and summer pink flowers emerge. Attracts birds and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and even moisture - regular water. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in gritty, rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Lathyrus vestitus

Plant type: perennial vine
Plant family: fabaceae
Foliage: deciduous or semi-evergreen green
Mature size: 12 IN wide, 6 FT - 10 FT - tall
Flowers: pink blooms in spring and summer
Uses: cutting garden, fragrant, long-blooming, tropical-looking

GROWING CONDITIONS for Lathyrus vestitus

USDA Zones: 9a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular

Soil needs: gritty, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

A NATIVE SWEET PEA!! Not to be mistaken for the incredibly aggressive invader Lathyrus latifolius, or the equally thuggish vetch, this venerable native plant is worth making a special place for. Said to be difficult in garden situations, our plants thrived in large pots with good, well drained soil, in full (albeit coastal) sun. 1” blooms are borne many to a stem, in a vibrant shade of violet pink. They even have a mild but beguiling grape/violet fragrance. Love!! Ours stayed evergreen through the Winter, though it’s supposed to be deciduous & then started blooming profusely in February. In the wild, this plant can be found growing under oaks in light shade & in both clay & sand. Climbs by tendrils from 6-10’, so provide support. Bait for snails, at least at first & don’t let it go completely dry. Attractive to birds & butterflies! Special thank you to plantsman Jim Duggan, who introduced us to this & many other very special native plants!