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Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea

Lathyrus sylvestris

Last reviewed: June 2026

Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea (Lathyrus sylvestris)
Photo: Fornax / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

36"–96" H × 24"–48" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, AR, CA, CO and 28 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Narrow-leaf everlasting-pea is a climbing perennial vine that produces clusters of pink to purple pea-like flowers from May through July. This hardy plant can reach 8 feet in height and spreads 2-4 feet wide, making it useful for covering fences, trellises, or slopes.

In an HOA neighborhood

Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Vigorous vine growth can appear uncontrolled
  • May spread aggressively beyond intended areas
  • Can look messy without proper support structure

Wildlife value

The flowers attract bees and butterflies during the long blooming period from late spring through summer. Seeds may also provide food for birds.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.