Sweet pea Lathyrus odoratus var. nanellus 'Lavender Sprite' (Sprite Series)
ABOUT
Lathyrus odoratus var. nanellus 'Lavender Sprite', commonly known as sweet pea, is a delicately structured plant renowned for its beautifully scented flowers. This variety, 'Lavender Sprite', features charming blooms with soft lavender hues, infusing the garden with a serene splash of color. The flowers typically exhibit a classic sweet pea shape, with gently folded petals that create a look similar to frilled butterfly wings. These blooms cluster along slender, climbing stems that intertwine gracefully, giving the plant an elegant, airy appearance. The foliage comprises pairs of leaflets that extend from the vine, alongside curly tendrils that help the plant grip onto supports for its vining growth habit. The leaves are usually a deep green, creating a lush backdrop that makes the lavender flowers truly stand out. As part of the Sprite Series, 'Lavender Sprite' offers a delightful visual and olfactory experience, with sweetly perfumed blossoms that can bring a touch of romance to any garden display or floral arrangement.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Sweet Pea, Everlasting Pea, Perennial Pea.
Common names
Lathyrus odoratus var. nanellus 'Lavender Sprite'
ToxicityTo humans
Sweet pea is the most common name for Lathyrus odoratus. In general, sweet peas are considered toxic to humans if ingested. The seeds and pods are particularly toxic because they contain a compound called lathyrogens, which can cause a condition known as lathyrism if consumed in large quantities. Lathyrism can lead to symptoms such as weakness and paralysis in the lower limbs, and in severe cases, it can cause permanent damage to the skeletal and nervous systems. Eating the seeds or any other part of the plant may also cause vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhea. It is important to avoid ingesting any part of the sweet pea plant.
To pets
Sweet pea is the most common name for Lathyrus odoratus. Sweet peas are also toxic to pets if ingested. While the flowers and leaves may only cause mild gastrointestinal distress, the seeds and pods contain lathyrogens, which can be harmful. Symptoms of sweet pea poisoning in pets can include lethargy, pacing, tremors, seizures, and difficulty breathing. As in humans, the toxicity primarily affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. It is advised to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the sweet pea plant to avoid these adverse health effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lavender
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its delicate lavender-colored flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: Invites beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, aiding in pollination of nearby plants.
- Compact Growth: Suitable for smaller spaces due to its dwarf variety which does not grow too large.
- Container Gardening: Ideal for pots and containers due to its compact growth habit.
- Cut Flowers: Blossoms can be used in floral arrangements, adding fragrance and color indoors.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides visual interest during its blooming season in the spring and summer.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, suitable for novice gardeners.
- Color Variety: Part of a series with multiple color options, offering versatility in garden design.
- Edging Plants: Can be used as border plants due to their orderly growth pattern and attractive foliage.
- Fast Growing: Quick to bloom after planting, offering a rapid display of color.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Sweet Pea seeds can be used as a natural mouse repellent when scattered in problem areas, as rodents dislike their bitter taste.
- The stems of Sweet Peas can be crafted into small, rustic wreaths or decorative bundles to add a touch of greenery to home decor.
- Due to their attractive blossoms, Sweet Peas can be placed in small vases as a natural dye source for fabrics, giving them a gentle hue.
- Sweet Pea petals can be used for paper-making, adding texture and color to handmade paper products.
- The flowers can be pressed and included in personal stationery or bookmarks for an elegant, floral touch.
- When dried, Sweet Pea flowers can serve as a component in potpourri mixtures, providing a delicate fragrance and texture.
- The Silica gel-dried flowers of Sweet Peas can be used in shadow boxes and other three-dimensional art projects.
- Sweet Pea vines can be fashioned into organic jewelry, such as bracelets or crowns, for special events like weddings or festivals.
- The dried seed pods can be used as biodegradable containers for starting new seedlings indoors.
- The hollowed stems of Sweet Peas can be used in crafting miniature, natural fairy garden accessories.
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: Commonly known as sweet peas, these fragrant flowers traditionally symbolize pleasure or delight, reflecting the joy and senses of beauty they bring to those who behold or smell them.
- Goodbye: Sweet peas can also represent farewells or goodbyes, often included in parting gifts to signify wishing someone a fond farewell or good luck in a new chapter.
- Blissful pleasure: The alluring scent and delicate appearance of the sweet pea blossom are associated with sheer bliss and enjoyment.
- Thank you for a lovely time: Sweet peas are a way to express gratitude for a shared pleasant experience or time spent together.
WaterSweet Pea 'Lavender Sprite' prefers consistent moisture and should be watered approximately once a week, though this may vary depending on climate and soil conditions. Aim to provide about 1 gallon of water each time you water, ensuring the soil is thoroughly moistened but not waterlogged. During hot or dry spells, water may be needed more frequently. It's important to check the top inch of the soil before watering; if it feels dry, it's time to water. Avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease.
LightSweet Pea 'Lavender Sprite' thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot would provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. While they can grow in light shade, blooming may be reduced in less than optimal light conditions. A south-facing garden location often provides the best light exposure for robust growth and floriferous results.
TemperatureSweet Pea 'Lavender Sprite' grows best in temperatures ranging from 55°F to 65°F. They can survive brief dips down to 25°F, but frost can be damaging, and temperatures above 75°F can hinder flowering. To encourage prolonged blooming, plant them in a spot where they can enjoy cool nights and moderate daytime temperatures.
PruningPrune Sweet Pea 'Lavender Sprite' to encourage bushier growth and more abundant flowering. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will prevent the plant from going to seed and promote continuous blooming. The best time for pruning is after the initial bloom, cutting back by about one-third, and continue deadheading throughout the season. Regular pruning also maintains the plant's appearance and vigor.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSweet peas prefer a well-draining soil mix enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. An ideal pH range for sweet peas is between 6.0 and 7.5. Adding perlite or vermiculite can improve drainage and aeration, benefiting overall plant health.
RepottingSweet peas generally do not require frequent repotting as they are annual plants. They are typically sown directly where they are to flower, as they dislike root disturbance. However, if started in containers, transplant them when they are small to minimize root disruption.
Humidity & MistingSweet peas prefer moderate humidity levels and will benefit from being grown in an environment that mimics their native habitat, which is not too dry. They can tolerate a range of humidity conditions as long as they are well-watered and ventilated to prevent mildew.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, provide support for climbing, and keep soil moist.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Sweet Pea 'Lavender Sprite' begins its life cycle as a seed, often sown in early spring directly into fertile, well-drained soil after the last frost or started indoors in regions with shorter growing seasons. Germination occurs within 10 to 21 days under ideal conditions of around 55 to 65°F. Once sprouted, the seedlings grow rapidly and produce tendrils, which they use to climb supports, and true leaves develop. This variety tends to bloom earlier than other sweet peas, displaying fragrant, lavender flowers from late spring to summer. Following pollination, typically by bees, the plant develops seed pods which mature and eventually release seeds once the pod dries out in late summer or early fall. This cultivar is an annual, completing its life cycle within one growing season, and must be replanted each year if gardeners wish to enjoy its flowers and fragrance again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Sweet Pea 'Lavender Sprite', like its counterparts in the Sweet Pea family, is most commonly propagated through seeds. The optimal time for sowing these seeds is typically in late winter or early spring. To maximize the chances of germination, it's advised to nick the seed coat with a file or to soak the seeds in water for several hours before planting. This helps to soften the tough outer shell, allowing moisture to trigger the germination process. Once prepared, the seeds are sowed at a depth of about 1 inch (2.54 cm), in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination occurs. Seedlings usually emerge within 10 to 21 days, with the warmth of late winter or early spring fostering the optimum growth conditions for this enchanting varietal.
