Sweet pea Lathyrus odoratus 'Bristol'
ABOUT
The Sweet Pea 'Bristol' is a flowering plant known for its showy and intricately structured blooms which come in various shades that can be a deep, rich purple. The flowers are typically arranged in clusters, emanating a delightful fragrance that is reminiscent of honey and orange blossom. The blooms have a classic shape where each flower features a large banner petal, two wing petals on the sides, and a keel in the center which is made up of two smaller petals. The foliage of the Sweet Pea 'Bristol' comprises tender green leaves, that are pinnate, meaning they are arranged in a feather-like pattern with multiple leaflets on either side of a common axis. These leaflets are oval-shaped with a pointed tip and provide a subtle backdrop to the colorful and scented blossoms. The plant's stems are slender and vine-like, capable of climbing with the support of tendrils that grasp onto nearby structures or plants for support, allowing the Sweet Pea to ascend and showcase its flowers above the surrounding foliage. Collectively, the Sweet Pea 'Bristol' is admired for its captivating flowers and can serve as a charming addition to garden trellises, fences, and archways, where it lends both visual appeal and a pleasant aroma to the surrounding air during its blooming period.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Sweet Pea, Queen of Annuals, Sweetpea, Everlasting Pea, Perennial Pea, Lathyrus
Common names
Lathyrus odoratus.
ToxicityTo humans
Sweet pea, including the specific cultivar Lathyrus odoratus 'Bristol', is not typically regarded as highly toxic to humans. However, it does contain amino acids called aminopropionitrile that, if ingested in large quantities, can lead to a condition known as lathyrism. Symptoms of lathyrism can include weakness and paralysis of the lower limbs, and potentially hyperesthesia and convulsions. It is especially important that the seeds not be ingested as that's where the highest concentration of the harmful compounds are found.
To pets
Sweet pea, scientifically known as Lathyrus odoratus 'Bristol', can be toxic to pets. If ingested, particularly in large quantities, the seeds can lead to a condition called lathyrism, which results from the amino acid aminopropionitrile that interferes with the body’s connective tissues. Symptoms of toxicity in pets can include lethargy, pacing, tremors, seizures, and difficulty breathing. It is essential to prevent pets from eating any part of the plant, especially the seeds, as they contain the highest concentration of these amino acids.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
2
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color and beauty to gardens with its array of hues.
- Fragrance: Emits a sweet scent that can perfume the air in its vicinity.
- Attracts Pollinators: Draws bees and butterflies, supporting pollination.
- Vertical Interest: Can climb structures, providing height and dimension to garden designs.
- Cut Flowers: Blossoms are ideal for bouquets and indoor arrangements.
- Cold Hardy: Tolerates cooler temperatures, making it suitable for various climates.
- Easy to Grow: Generally low maintenance, requiring minimal care.
- Annual Bloomer: Completes its lifecycle in one growing season, offering quick rewards.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: Sweet pea 'Bristol' has often inspired artists and photographers with its striking blossoms, leading to its depiction in various forms of art and design.
- Educational Tools: Horticulturalists and educators may use sweet pea 'Bristol' to teach principles of plant growth, genetics, and hybridization due to their distinctive traits and history.
- Companionship Planting: Growers utilize sweet pea 'Bristol' in their vegetable gardens to attract beneficial insects that can aid in pollinating vegetables and managing pests.
- Craft Materials: The stems and flowers can be used in making natural dyes for fabrics, with petals imparting subtle hues to handcrafted textiles.
- Garden Architecture: Sweet pea 'Bristol' can be used to create living garden structures such as arches or trellises that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Floral Language and Symbolism: Sweet pea 'Bristol' can be incorporated into floral arrangements that communicate messages, as they symbolize delicate pleasures in the Victorian language of flowers.
- Culinary Garnish: While not commonly eaten, the flowers of sweet pea 'Bristol' can be used as a decorative, non-toxic garnish to add a touch of elegance to dishes.
- Wedding Decor: Due to their romantic fragrance and appearance, sweet pea 'Bristol' can be incorporated in wedding bouquets, centerpieces, and venue decorations.
- Signature Scents: Some boutique perfumeries may use the essence of sweet pea 'Bristol' flowers to create unique, custom-blended fragrances.
- Crafting Biodegradable Confetti: Dried sweet pea 'Bristol' petals can serve as an eco-friendly confetti alternative for celebrations, decomposing naturally without harming the environment.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sweet Pea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sweet Pea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Pleasure: Sweet peas, which is the common name for Lathyrus odoratus, often symbolize pleasure due to their delightful fragrance, which can infuse an air of enjoyment wherever they are present.
- Departure: Because sweet peas can grow rapidly and then fade away, they also represent goodbyes or a wish for a fond farewell.
- Thankfulness: Gifting sweet peas can be a way of expressing gratitude, as they are seen as a polite gesture of thanks.
- Blissful pleasure: They indicate utmost pleasure and are often linked to blissful enjoyment because of their alluring scent and attractive blossoms.
- Delicate pleasures: Sweet peas symbolize delicate, delightful pleasures, reminiscent of enjoying the simpler, fleeting moments of life.
WaterFor Sweet Peas, consistent moisture is key, so they should be watered deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water which will help to establish a strong root system. During the hot summer months or in dry conditions, Sweet Peas may require watering two to three times per week. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; instead, water at the base of the plant. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid over-watering; the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Over the growing season, one might use about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant per week, depending on weather conditions.
LightSweet Peas thrive in full sun, meaning they require at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for these flowers would be in a location where they receive morning sunlight and are protected from the intense heat of the late afternoon sun. They can tolerate partial shade, but too little light can lead to fewer blooms, so full sun is the ideal condition for vibrant flowers and healthy foliage.
TemperatureSweet Peas prefer cooler temperatures and will flourish in an environment where the daytime temperatures are between 55°F and 65°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 25°F, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures or a hard frost can be detrimental. The maximum temperature for Sweet Peas is typically around 75°F; temperatures higher than this can cause the plants to stop flowering.
PruningPruning is essential for Sweet Peas to promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Pinch off the tips of the plant when they are 4 to 6 inches tall to encourage bushy growth. Regularly remove spent blooms and seed pods to encourage continuous flowering. The best time for pruning and deadheading is when flowers start to fade or as often as new blooms are formed to keep the plant tidy and productive.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSweet peas thrive in rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A good soil mix can be made by combining two parts loam, one part well-rotted manure or compost, and a handful of bone meal to provide phosphorus for strong root development. Ensuring adequate organic matter will also help retain moisture while providing nutrients.
RepottingSweet peas are typically sown directly where they are to flower and do not require repotting. If started in pots, they should be transplanted to their final location when they are young to avoid root disturbance, as they do not respond well to repotting once established.
Humidity & MistingSweet peas prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to a range of conditions as long as they are well-watered. Overly dry air can cause bud drop, while too much humidity can lead to fungal diseases. It's a balancing act to maintain healthy plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, cooler temps, and support for climbing.
Outdoor
Full sun, cool roots, trellis for support, moist soil.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleLathyrus odoratus 'Bristol', commonly known as Sweet Pea 'Bristol', starts its life as a seed that germinates in the cool temperatures of early spring. After seedling emergence, the plant develops a robust root system and shoots with climbing tendrils that seek support. During growth, it produces compound leaves with multiple leaflets and tendrils. By late spring to early summer, it enters the flowering stage, where it displays its fragrant, colorful flowers, attracting pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed pods, and once mature, these pods release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. In the fall or with the first frosts, Sweet Pea 'Bristol' dies back, as it is an annual plant, leaving the new seeds to carry on the next generation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method of propagating Sweet Pea 'Bristol' is by seed. It is suggested to sow Sweet Pea seeds directly outdoors in early spring when the soil can be worked and has warmed to about 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius). Prior to sowing, seeds can be softened by chipping with a knife or soaking in water for 24 hours to enhance germination rates. Seeds should be planted 1 inch deep and spaced 2 to 3 inches apart. It's ideal to provide a trellis or support at the time of planting, as Sweet Peas are climbing plants and will need something to grow on as they develop. Seedlings usually appear within 10-14 days, and flowers can be expected throughout the summer.
