Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea
Lathyrus sylvestris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a moderate level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea need?
- Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea bloom?
- Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea native?
- Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea (Lathyrus sylvestris) is native to AL, AR, CA, CO and 28 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea toxic to livestock?
- Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (moderate severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- What pollinators does Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea attract?
- Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea HOA-friendly?
- Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Narrow-leaf Everlasting-pea? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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