Lathyrus odoratus 'Somerset Lady'
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as sweet pea, specifically the 'Somerset Lady' variety, is a captivating climbing plant renowned for its showy and fragrant flowers. Its blossoms exhibit a soft pink hue with delicate, rippling petal edges that can sometimes display a subtle shift to a soft, creamy white at the base, giving a bi-colored effect. The sweet pea's flowers grow on slender stems and exhibit a classic, fluted form that appears as though they are intricately folded, with each bloom possessing a distinct, light-catching quality. A standout feature of this variety is the intoxicating fragrance that can emanate from the blooms, which is sweet and reminiscent of old-fashioned perfumes. Foliage-wise, sweet pea 'Somerset Lady' boasts petite, blue-green leaves that climb by using their thin, tendril-like extensions to grasp onto supports. This characteristic enables the plant to wrap and weave through garden structures such as trellises, arbors, or fences, creating a cascade of color and scent. In terms of the floral arrangement, the 'Somerset Lady' tends to produce blossoms in clusters, adding to the visual impact of the plant when it is in full bloom and making it a popular choice among gardeners who aim to create a showcase of ornamental blooms. Despite the exclusion of specific measurements, one can imagine the graceful and enchanting presence that this sweet pea variety would contribute to any garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae.
Synonyms
Sweet Pea, Everlasting Pea, Sweetpea, Perennial Pea.
Common names
Lathyrus odoratus 'Somerset Lady'.
ToxicityTo humans
Sweet pea, specifically the Lathyrus odoratus 'Somerset Lady', contains a toxic amino acid called Lathyrism which can cause a condition known as lathyrism if ingested in large quantities. The condition may result in symptoms such as weakness, lethargy, and in severe cases, paralysis of the legs. Chronic ingestion could lead to irreversible neurological damage. Eating seeds or seedlings may be especially dangerous.
To pets
Sweet pea is also toxic to pets, as it contains the amino acid Lathyrism which can lead to lathyrism if ingested. In pets, symptoms of toxicity might include vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, lethargy, convulsions, and in severe cases, paralysis. Continuous consumption of the plant, particularly the seeds, can be especially harmful and should be avoided to prevent neurological damage or other serious consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
2
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Sweet pea 'Somerset Lady' is known for its attractive blooms and sweet fragrance, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardening.
- Colorful Displays: With its range of pink and blush flowers, it adds a splash of color to gardens, borders, and floral arrangements.
- Fragrance: The plant's strong scent can enhance the sensory experience of a garden or indoor space.
- Pollinator Attraction: Sweet peas are known to attract bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination.
- Versatility: 'Somerset Lady' can be grown in a variety of settings, including containers, trellises, and as cut flowers for vases.
- Easy to Grow: They are generally easy to cultivate, making them suitable for gardeners at all skill levels.
- Fast Growth: Sweet peas grow relatively quickly, which can be rewarding for those who enjoy seeing rapid progress in their gardening endeavors.
- Climbing Habit: Their climbing nature allows them to be used to cover trellises, fences, and walls, providing vertical interest in the garden.
- Legacy and Tradition: Sweet peas have a long history of cultivation and are often associated with nostalgic gardening traditions.
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 'Somerset Lady', commonly known as sweet pea, can be used in natural dyeing processes; the flowers can create delicate shades on fabrics.
- Its vines, being sturdy yet flexible, may be woven into small crafts or decorative wreaths when dried properly.
- Dried sweet pea petals can be incorporated into homemade paper, adding a unique texture and color to the final product.
- Crushed sweet pea seeds, though not edible, may be used in a sachet to deter pests in gardens by exploiting their natural scent.
- The plant's strong visual appeal makes it an excellent candidate for photography projects and botanical illustrations.
- Its flowers can be used to make a floral-flavored syrup for use in cocktails or desserts, provided they are free from pesticides and other contaminants.
- Pressed sweet pea flowers can be utilized in crafting, such as creating bookmarks, greeting cards, or in scrapbooking.
- With their vivid colors and shapes, sweet pea blossoms can be a teaching tool for children learning about plant biology and natural diversity.
- When planted in a vegetable garden, sweet pea can act as a climbing support for lighter, climbing vegetables like peas or beans.
- The residual plant matter after flowering can be added to compost as a source of green material, which helps in balancing the compost's carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.
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- Blissful Pleasure: Sweet peas, including 'Somerset Lady,' are often associated with experiencing pleasure that is both delightful and temporarily indulgent because of their fleeting bloom and sweet aroma.
- Goodbye: In the language of flowers, sweet peas can symbolize a departure or farewell, which could resonate with the send-off of an old era as 'Somerset Lady' hints regality and transition.
- Thankfulness: Gifting sweet peas can express gratitude, making them a perfect token for showing appreciation to someone.
- Delicate or Blissful Pleasure: Reflecting their delicate structure and sweet scent, Sweet peas symbolize the idea of enjoying a delicate or blissful moment.
- Lasting Pleasure: While they symbolize a goodbye, they also signify a wish for a lasting pleasure to the recipient, perhaps a nod to the beauty and joy the flower has brought.
WaterSweet peas like regular watering, especially during dry spells. For the Lathyrus odoratus 'Somerset Lady', it's crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During active growth, water thoroughly once a week with about 1 gallon per plant, ensuring it penetrates deeply to encourage strong root development. In especially hot or windy weather, check moisture levels more frequently, as sweet peas may need additional water to stay hydrated.
LightSweet peas prefer a sunny spot with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. For the Lathyrus odoratus 'Somerset Lady', a position that receives morning sun and some afternoon shade is ideal, as intense heat can stress the plant. Avoid placing them in full shade, as this can reduce flowering and lead to leggy growth.
TemperatureSweet peas thrive in cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frosts. The Lathyrus odoratus 'Somerset Lady' grows best when daytime temperatures are between 55°F and 75°F. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to 20°F, but beyond this, frost damage is likely. Avoid exposing the plant to prolonged temperatures over 85°F, as high heat can impede flowering.
PruningPruning encourages bushier growth and more blooms in sweet peas. Pinch out the growing tips of Lathyrus odoratus 'Somerset Lady' when seedlings are 4-6 inches tall. Deadhead regularly by removing spent flowers to prolong the blooming period. Prune back plants by about one third after the first flush of flowers to stimulate a second bloom. In temperate climates, the best time for this mid-season pruning is often early to mid-summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSweet Pea 'Somerset Lady' thrives in well-draining soil enhanced with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal. Mixing in perlite or coarse sand can improve drainage, while adding peat moss can help retain moisture appropriately.
RepottingSweet Peas, including 'Somerset Lady', are typically sown directly where they are to flower since they prefer not to be transplanted. Repotting is generally not necessary as they are annual plants; however, if started in pots, transplant them before root systems become too crowded, usually within a few weeks after sowing.
Humidity & MistingSweet Pea 'Somerset Lady' does not require high humidity; average ambient humidity is usually sufficient. Avoid overly humid conditions as they can encourage fungal diseases. Ensuring good air circulation can help maintain appropriate humidity levels around the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and a trellis for support.
Outdoor
Provide full sun, cool roots with mulch, and support for climbing.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Sweet Pea 'Somerset Lady' begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in early spring when soil temperatures reach about 55 to 65°F (13 to 18°C). After successful germination, seedlings grow into vegetative plants with long, climbing tendrils and compound leaves. Throughout late spring and into summer, the plants develop distinctive and fragrant flowers that can range in color from pink to mauve. After pollination, often by bees, the flowers produce pods containing several seeds, which mature by late summer. Once the seeds have matured, the plant begins to senesce and will die with the first frosts of autumn or winter. However, the now-dried seeds can be collected and sown the following spring to start the life cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Propogation: Lathyrus odoratus, commonly known as the sweet pea, is typically propagated using seeds. The best time to sow sweet pea seeds is either in late October to November or from January to early April. To propagate by seeds, one should soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat, which aids in germination. After soaking, sow the seeds about 1 inch deep in pots or trays filled with a good quality seed compost. Place the pots in a bright, cool spot, and keep the compost moist, but not waterlogged. Germination can take anywhere from 7 to 15 days. Once seedlings have developed, they can be transplanted to their final growing location in the garden when they are large enough to handle and there's no risk of frost.
