Spring vetchling

Lathyrus vernus is a charming and reliable spring-flowering perennial that differs from its climbing sweet-pea relatives by forming a neat, non-invasive clump. This 'Spring Pea' is perfectly suited to UK woodland gardens or the front of a shady border. In early spring, it produces a profusion of pea-like flowers that emerge a bright reddish-purple and age to a captivating turquoise-blue. The overall effect is a multi-toned display that brightens shaded areas before the summer canopy fully closes. Its foliage consists of elegant, bright green pinnate leaves that remain attractive long after the flowers have finished. It is easy to grow, preferring moist but well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Unlike many other peas, it does not require any support and reaches a tidy height and spread of around 30cm. It is a long-lived plant that slowly increases in size each year without becoming a nuisance.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Mar, Apr, May.