Introduction
The name Lathyrus grandiflorus is sometimes mistakenly applied to the grandiflora type sweet peas of the species L. odoratus. Unlike the sweet peas which are annuals, L. grandiflorus is a robust perennial with a running rootstock. It is a showy plant, flowering in early summer, but rarely setting seed in the UK. There is a nice photo of the flower on the De Mashut website.
Summary
- name : Lathyrus grandiflorus Sibth. & Smith
- common names : Two flowered pea, everlasting pea
- section : Lathyrus
- type : perennial herb
- habit : climbing
- distribution : Southern Europe
- flowers : rich crimson magenta
Cultivation
An easily grown spreading perennial which can become invasive, particularly in light soils. At its best allowed to sprawl down a bank. Because of its reluctance to set seed, Lathyrus grandiflorus normally has to bought as a plant. It can easily be propagated from its running rootstock.