Sweet pea Lathyrus odoratus
ABOUT
L. odoratus is an annual that climbs to about 2m using tendrils. The flowers, produced in summer and early autumn, are 3.5cm across, strongly-scented, with wine-red standard petals and purple wings and keels. Hundreds of cultivars have been raised, a few of which can be seen here
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Sweet Pea, Everlasting Pea, Perennial Pea, Sweetpea.
Common names
Lathyrus suaveolens, Lathyrus tingitanus, Lathyrus tuberosus, Orobus odoratus.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters)
Spread
1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.45 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Lathyrus odoratus, commonly known as sweet pea, is highly appreciated for its vibrant and colorful flowers that enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: Sweet pea is well-known for its sweet and pleasant fragrance, making it a popular choice for cutting gardens and floral arrangements to scent indoor spaces.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the sweet pea plant attract beneficial pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds, contributing to pollination and the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Edible Uses: Although the seeds can be toxic if not prepared properly, some parts of sweet pea have been historically used for culinary purposes. Caution is advised, and one should always refer to culinary experts before consuming parts of any ornamental plant.
- Easy to Grow: Sweet pea is considered easy to cultivate, which makes it ideal for amateur gardeners or those new to gardening. It grows well in various climates and soil types.
- Climbing Habit: With its climbing growth habit, sweet pea can be used on trellises, fences, and arbors to create vertical interest in the garden or to mask unsightly structures.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lathyrus odoratus, commonly known as sweet pea, can be used as a natural dye, providing a range of soft colors for fabrics and yarns.
- The stems of sweet pea are sometimes used in basket weaving due to their pliability when soaked.
- Gardeners may use the dried vines of sweet pea as a natural form of garden string to tie and support other plants.
- Sweet pea flowers can serve as a decorative element in crafts, especially in dried floral arrangements.
- The flowers are used in perfumery, their extract is valued for its sweet, floral scent characteristic of fine fragrances.
- Florists use sweet pea blossoms in bridal bouquets and boutonnieres because of their delicate appearance and fragrance.
- During the Victorian era, sweet pea blossoms were part of the "language of flowers" and were used to send subtle messages.
- Educational uses include sweet pea growing competitions in schools to teach children about plant biology and horticulture.
- Sweet pea flowers can be pressed and used in the art of flower pressing, often found in handmade greeting cards or bookmarks.
- Culinary schools sometimes use sweet pea flowers as edible decorations on cakes and desserts despite the plant being considered toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiSweet Pea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilitySweet Pea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Blissful Pleasure: Lathyrus odoratus, commonly known as sweet pea, is often associated with the experiencing of blissful pleasure, owing to its delicate and fragrant blossoms which provide a sense of enjoyment and satisfaction.
- Goodbye or Departure: Sweet pea can symbolize a farewell or departure, perhaps because they can be given as a gentle and friendly reminder of someone's presence even when they have left.
- Kindness: The flower symbolizes kindness, reflecting the sweet and pleasing nature of the sweet pea blooms and their resemblance to a tender, kind-hearted gesture.
- Thank You for a Lovely Time: They are often used to express gratitude for a shared special moment or experience, making them a popular choice for a gift after a shared experience that was particularly enjoyable.
- Delicate Pleasures: The delicate nature of the flowers signifies the appreciation of delicate or refined pleasures in life, suggesting a sophistication in taste and a capability to enjoy the subtler things.
WaterSweet peas require consistent moisture to thrive, so water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this may mean watering once or twice a week, but it can vary depending on your climate and weather conditions. Providing about one inch of water weekly is a good rule of thumb. During hot or dry spells, you might need to water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out completely. It's best to water the plants early in the morning directly at the base to minimize moisture on the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightSweet peas prefer full sun, meaning they should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. A spot that provides morning sunlight and some protection from the intense heat of the afternoon sun can be ideal, especially in hotter climates. Avoid planting sweet peas in areas that are shaded for most of the day, as insufficient sunlight can hinder blooming.
TemperatureSweet peas do best in cooler temperatures and can tolerate a light frost. They grow optimally when daytime temperatures are between 55°F and 65°F. The maximum temperature for sweet peas before they start to suffer is around 75°F, while they can survive down to about 25°F, though it's not ideal. It's important to plant sweet peas in an area where the temperature conditions match their preference for a cool growing environment.
PruningPruning sweet peas is essential to encourage more blooms and extend their flowering season. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, should be done regularly to prevent the plant from going to seed. Pinching out the growing tips once the plant reaches about 6 inches tall will promote bushier growth and more flowers. The best time to prune sweet peas is during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSweet pea thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 to 7.5. A good mix would include two parts loam, one part perlite or coarse sand, and one part compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients.
RepottingSweet pea, being cultivated mostly as an annual, does not typically require repotting. Once planted, they will grow for a single season and can be replanted from seed annually.
Humidity & MistingSweet peas prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable and can thrive in the average humidity conditions found outdoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and support for climbing.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, provide support for vines, fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleSweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus) starts its life as a seed, which, when sown in fertile, well-drained soil and with adequate warmth, will germinate and sprout within 1-2 weeks. The seedling stage follows, characterized by the emergence of the first true leaves, which is critical for photosynthesis. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it develops a climbing vine structure with more leaves and tendrils that require support to grow upwards. Following vegetative growth, the sweet pea enters the flowering stage, usually a few weeks after planting, where it produces fragrant, colorful flowers that are often used for ornamental purposes. After pollination, typically by bees or butterflies, the plant produces pods containing seeds, marking the reproductive stage. Eventually, as the season ends or conditions become unfavorable, the sweet pea enters senescence and dies back, leaving seeds behind which can start the next generation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus) is typically propagated by seed. The best time to sow sweet pea seeds is either in autumn or late winter, to ensure that they establish strong root systems before the onset of the warmer months. Sowing in autumn can lead to early spring blooms, provided that the winter is not too harsh. The popular method of propagating sweet peas involves soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours (about 1 day), which softens the seed coat and improves germination rates. After soaking, the seeds can be sown in pots or trays filled with well-drained soil, about 1 inch deep (2.5 centimeters). It's important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged as the seeds germinate and young plants begin to grow. Once seedlings are sturdy enough, they can be transplanted to their final growing positions, ensuring they have support for climbing, as sweet peas are vining plants.
