Why this hardy climber is replacing annual sweet peas in discerning gardens
The Gardener’s Hidden Struggle
Every spring, millions of gardeners face the same frustrating cycle: planting delicate annual sweet peas that demand constant care, only to watch them wither by midsummer. The traditional solution? Resign yourself to buying new plants each year, wasting both money and effort on temporary beauty.
“I used to spend £50 annually replacing sweet peas until I discovered the perennial variety. Now my trellis blooms reliably every June without replanting.”
– Sarah K., Devon gardener
This is where Lathyrus latifolius ‘Pink’ changes everything. As an award-winning hardy perennial, it delivers the same romantic charm as traditional sweet peas but returns vigorously year after year.
Anatomy of a Gardening Revolution
Physical Structure
- 90cm starter cane for immediate vertical growth
- 2.5L root system establishes quickly
- Twining tendrils grasp supports naturally
Growth Mechanism
- Deciduous cycle conserves energy in winter
- Fast climbing habit (2m/year)
- Self-seeding capability expands coverage
Environmental Adaptation
- Hardy to -15°C (USDA Zone 5)
- Thrives in full sun with moderate water
- Tolerates most well-drained soils
Why Gardeners Are Switching
Compared to traditional annual sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) and other climbing perennials:
| Feature | L. latifolius ‘Pink’ | Annual Sweet Peas | Clematis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 10+ years | 1 season | 5-7 years |
| Fragrance | Mild | Strong | None |
| 5-Year Cost | £14 | £50+ | £25-40 |
| Maintenance | Low | High | Medium |
*AGM award indicates superior garden performance compared to non-awarded varieties
Transformational Garden Stories
The Neglected Fence
Initial State: Ugly chain-link dividing a suburban garden
Trigger: Neighbor’s pristine hedge created privacy envy
Solution: Three ‘Pink’ plants spaced along fence
Result: Complete floral coverage by Year 2, creating a living privacy screen that returns thicker each spring
The High-Maintenance Cottage
Initial State: Annual sweet peas requiring trellis rebuilding each year
Trigger: New baby left no time for garden upkeep
Solution: Permanent perennial sweet pea structure
Result: Self-sustaining floral display that survives erratic care
Why This Perennial Climber Belongs in Your Garden
For gardeners seeking low-maintenance flowering plants that deliver long-lasting color, the hardy Lathyrus latifolius represents a smart investment. Its AGM award-winning performance guarantees results where other climbing perennials UK might struggle.
At £13.99 for years of blooms (versus annual £5-10 replacements), the everlasting sweet pea pays for itself by season two. The soft pink flowering climber works equally well in cottage gardens or modern landscapes, pairing beautifully with roses or clematis.
Key Attributes: Perennial sweet pea plants | Pink climbing flowers | Hardy garden climbers | Low maintenance flowering vines | Award-winning perennial plants
Ideal For: Privacy screens | Cottage gardens | Trellis coverage | Wildlife gardens | Cut flower arrangements