Lathyrus latifolius 'Red Pearl' – A vigorous perennial sweet pea with striking deep red flowers

Lathyrus latifolius 'Red Pearl', also known as the perennial sweet pea, is a beautiful and robust climber that makes a real eye-catcher in any garden. While the annual sweet pea is primarily popular for its fragrance, this perennial variety is known for its vigorous growth, abundant blooms, and winter hardiness. 'Red Pearl' also stands out for its rich, intense deep-red flowers, which appear in large clusters and instantly create a warm, romantic atmosphere in borders, along pergolas, or against fences.

Deep red flower colour that stands out in any garden

The most distinctive aspect of Lathyrus latifolius 'Red Pearl' is its striking flower color. The butterfly-like flowers, which bloom from June until well into September, display deep red hues that barely fade in the sun. This makes the plant ideal for colorful, sunny gardens. Although this perennial sweet pea has little fragrance, it more than compensates with its long-lasting and very abundant blooms, which reliably return year after year.

Vigorous perennial climbing plant

Lathyrus latifolius 'Red Pearl' is a hardy perennial that reseeds in spring from a sturdy rootstock. Once established, it grows rapidly and easily reaches a height of 150 to 200 cm. Thanks to its tendrils, the plant easily attaches to wire mesh, fences, trellis, or pergolas. The strong, fairly thick stems form a dense, green mass that is also excellent for disguising less attractive areas in the garden.

The plant is known for its high resilience: it tolerates cold, resists wind, and is also drought-resistant. This makes 'Red Pearl' one of the most low-maintenance climbers for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Location & care

This perennial sweet pea requires a sunny to lightly shaded location. More sun means more abundant and prolonged flowering, so it's worth choosing a warm spot. The soil should be well-drained; humus-rich soil or slightly chalky garden soil is ideal. Regular watering is recommended during the initial growth period, but once established, the plant requires little additional care.

Because Lathyrus latifolius 'Red Pearl' is a natural climber, a sturdy support is essential. If necessary, tie up young shoots lightly to guide them in the right direction. In spring, you can prune old stems back to the base to encourage fresh, vigorous new growth. Regularly removing spent flowers promotes an even longer flowering period.

Ideal for borders, fences and pergolas

With its deep red hues, Lathyrus latifolius 'Red Pearl' is a favorite in cottage gardens, rose gardens, and romantically designed borders. It combines beautifully with white and purple flowers, such as campanulas, clematis, lavender, and white roses. This climber is also perfect for pergolas, rose arches, fences, or anywhere that requires vertical growth.

'Red Pearl' also thrives in natural or ecological gardens. The flowers attract bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity in the garden.

Why choose Lathyrus latifolius 'Red Pearl'?

• Intense deep red flowers

• Hardy and perennial

• Vigorous grower, up to 2 metres high

• Low maintenance

• Abundant flowering from June to September

• Attracts bees and butterflies

• Ideal for fences, pergolas and borders

With its striking colours, vigorous growth and low maintenance requirements, Lathyrus latifolius 'Red Pearl' is a real asset for any garden lover who wants to enjoy a reliable, graceful climber year after year.