Snub Pea
Lathyrus sulphureus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–48" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, OR
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Snub pea is a native vine that produces cheerful yellow flowers from May through July. This drought-tolerant perennial grows 1-4 feet tall and wide, making it suitable for covering ground or trailing over edges. It goes dormant in winter, disappearing completely until spring growth returns.
In an HOA neighborhood
Snub Pea takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Completely disappears in winter leaving bare ground
- Vine growth habit can appear uncontrolled
- May be viewed as weedy by traditional landscaping standards
Wildlife value
The bright yellow blooms attract native bees and butterflies during the summer flowering 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 Snub Pea fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.