Oregon Pea
Lathyrus polyphyllus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, OR, WA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Leafy pea is a native perennial wildflower that produces clusters of small pea-like flowers in shades of purple or pink. This climbing or sprawling plant works well as groundcover or can be trained up small supports, adding natural charm to garden beds.
In an HOA neighborhood
Oregon 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.
- Sprawling growth habit can appear uncontrolled
- May look weedy or unkempt in formal settings
- Climbing tendency requires management in maintained landscapes
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the late spring and summer blooming period. As a member of the pea family, it also helps fix nitrogen in the soil.
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 Oregon Pea fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.