Sweet pea Lathyrus odoratus 'Mary Mac'
ABOUT
The Sweet Pea 'Mary Mac' is a delightfully fragrant flowering plant known for its stunning blossoms. This variety bears flowers that are often a rich, deep purple color, giving it a regal appearance. The petals of 'Mary Mac' are velvety and soft to the touch and are typically arranged in a classic Sweet Pea flower shape, which includes standard, wings, and keel petals. The standard is the large, upright petal at the back of the flower, while the wings are the side petals that flare out, and the keel is the fused petals at the front that form a boat-like shape. The flowers emerge from slender, climbing stems that are adorned with paired, oval-shaped leaves ending in tendrils, which the plant uses to grasp and climb support structures. These leafy vines give the plant a delicate and airy look, as they support the weight of the blossoms and allow them to appear as if they are floating amidst the greenery. As part of the Sweet Pea family, 'Mary Mac' not only provides visual appeal but also exudes a strong, sweet fragrance that is highly valued in gardens and as a cut flower to fill indoor spaces with a pleasant aroma.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae.
Synonyms
Sweet Pea, Everlasting Pea, Perennial Pea, Lathyrus.
Common names
Lathyrus odoratus.
ToxicityTo humans
Sweet pea is generally considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. However, all parts of the plant contain a compound called aminoproprionitrile, which can cause a condition known as lathyrism if ingested in large amounts over time. Lathyrism is a neurological disease that can lead to paralysis, lethargy, and potentially convulsions. Chronic exposure can also cause skeletal deformities or growth issues. However, accidental ingestion of sweet pea seeds or plant material in small quantities is unlikely to cause serious poisoning in humans.
To pets
Sweet pea is also toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. Similar to its effects on humans, the plant contains aminoproprionitrile which can cause lathyrism. The symptoms of poisoning in pets may include lethargy, weakness, tremors, seizures, and in severe cases, it could potentially cause paralysis or convulsions. Owners should prevent their pets from ingesting sweet pea plants or seeds, and seek veterinary care if they suspect their pets have consumed any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
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: The sweet pea 'Mary Mac' adds vibrant color and delicate beauty to gardens with its colorful flowers.
- Fragrance: The flowers emit a sweet fragrance that can perfume an outdoor space or indoor area when used in floral arrangements.
- Attracts Pollinators: Sweet peas attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollinating garden plants and flowers.
- Easy to Grow: Sweet peas are generally easy to cultivate, making them a good choice for novice gardeners.
- Versatility: They can be used in a variety of garden designs, including borders, trellises, and as cut flowers.
- Edible Qualities: While not specific to 'Mary Mac', some parts of certain sweet pea varieties are edible, but caution is advised as other parts can be toxic.
- Pleasant Growing Experience: Handling the plant can be a therapeutic hobby and provide enjoyment from planting to blooming.
- Intermittent Bloomer: Sweet peas can bloom at intervals throughout the growing season if maintained properly.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The flowers of sweet pea can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, imparting subtle hues to textiles.
- Educational tool: Sweet pea's growing patterns and genetics can be studied in educational settings to demonstrate principles of plant biology and Mendelian inheritance.
- Floral art: Sweet pea flowers are popular in floral art and design due to their vibrant colors and delicate shapes, serving as inspiration for artists and crafters.
- Companion planting: Sweet peas can be planted alongside vegetables such as beans and tomatoes to take advantage of their climbing nature and to aesthetically enhance vegetable gardens.
- Photography object: The picturesque blooms of sweet peas make them an attractive subject for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
- Wedding decor: Due to their romantic associations and appealing aroma, sweet peas are often used in bridal bouquets, centerpieces, and wedding venue decorations.
- Garden fragrance: Sweet peas are planted to naturally perfume gardens with their sweet floral scent, creating an inviting outdoor space.
- Crafting potpourri: The dried flowers can be included in potpourri mixes to add color and a light fragrance to a room.
- Botanical illustration: Sweet pea flowers are an ideal subject for botanical illustrators to capture their intricate details and color variations.
- Festivals and events: Sweet pea blooms are showcased in garden festivals and flower shows, celebrating their beauty and diversity of colors.
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: Sweet pea, being known for its delightfully fragrant blooms, is often associated with experiencing sheer bliss and the pleasure derived from delightful scents and beautiful surroundings.
- Goodbye and Departure: In the language of flowers, sweet pea carries the message of saying goodbye, perhaps because it can be given when someone is leaving or as a way to cherish memories of good times shared before parting ways.
- Gratitude: Sweet pea is also symbolic of gratitude, making it an ideal flower to express thanks for a lovely time or to acknowledge someone's kindness.
- Delicate Pleasures: Reflecting the delicate nature of its petals and soft fragrance, sweet pea represents the enjoyment of delicate, subtle pleasures in life.
WaterSweet peas require consistent moisture to thrive, so water them deeply once a week, applying about one gallon of water per square yard. During hot or dry spells, watering may need to increase to twice weekly. The goal is to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, as standing water can cause root rot. When watering, aim the water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of disease.
LightSweet peas thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. They grow best when planted in a location where they receive morning light, which is cooler and less intense than the afternoon sun. If planted in too much shade, sweet peas will produce fewer flowers and have weaker stems.
TemperatureSweet peas prefer cool to moderate temperatures, thriving in conditions where daytime temperatures are between 55°F and 70°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F but will not survive if exposed to temperatures below freezing for extended periods. The ideal temperature range for flowering is from 50°F to 65°F.
PruningPruning sweet peas encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch out the growing tips when plants are 4-6 inches tall to promote branching. Regularly deadhead by removing spent flowers to prevent the plant from setting seed, which prolongs the blooming period. The best time for major pruning is in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSweet peas like 'Mary Mac' prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The ideal soil mix can consist of a combination of garden soil, compost, and perlite or grit to enhance drainage. Regular addition of organic matter will help maintain soil fertility and structure.
RepottingSweet peas such as 'Mary Mac' typically do not require repotting as they are annual plants. They are sown directly where they are to flower, so there is usually no need to repot them after planting.
Humidity & MistingSweet peas like 'Mary Mac' thrive in moderate humidity levels and do not require excessively high humidity environments. Aim for an ambient level that mimics outdoor conditions, without misting, as they can be prone to fungal diseases if kept too damp.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, cool air, and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny spot with supports for climbing and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleThe sweet pea 'Mary Mac' begins its life cycle when the seeds are planted in cool, moist soil, usually in early spring or autumn, depending on the climate. Germination occurs within 10-28 days where the seedlings emerge, developing roots and a pair of true leaves. As the plant grows, it develops a vining habit, requiring support for optimal growth; tendrils will form allowing the sweet pea to climb. The vegetative stage is marked by rapid stem and foliage growth, until environmental conditions trigger flowering, usually in the late spring or early summer. Blossoms of varying shades of pink and white appear, exuding a strong, sweet fragrance, and pollination occurs either through self-pollination or with the help of insects. The flowering stage lasts several weeks before the plant sets seed pods, after which the life cycle can begin anew if seeds are collected and sown, or the plant will eventually die back, completing its annual cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: Sweet pea 'Mary Mac' is best propagated through seed sowing. The best time to sow sweet pea seeds is in late winter or early spring, aiming for a time frame that allows the plants to establish before the warmth of spring encourages vigorous growth. Seeds can be sown directly into well-prepared soil where the plants are to flower or into seed trays or pots if conditions are not yet suitable for outdoor sowing. Before planting, the hard seed coat can be softened by chipping or soaking in water for several hours to improve germination rates. Sow seeds at a depth of about 1 inch (2.5 cm) and space them about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) apart. Provide support for climbing as the plants grow, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination typically takes 10 to 14 days at a temperature of around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius).
