Sweet pea Lathyrus odoratus 'Starlight'
ABOUT
Lathyrus odoratus 'Starlight,' commonly known as sweet pea 'Starlight,' is a flowering plant that boasts an array of features which make it particularly appealing to garden enthusiasts and floral admirers alike. Its flowers are a captivating spectacle; each bloom consists of a delicate harmony of two primary colors – typically a creamy white that melds into a soft pastel shade, often lavender or light pink, creating a gentle gradient that resembles the fading light of a star. These blooms carry a sweet fragrance that can fill the air around it, making it a popular choice for both gardens and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements. The plant itself produces slender, green stems that are adorned with small, yet vibrant green leaves. These leaves are arranged in a pinnate formation, with multiple leaflets growing opposite each other along the stem, providing a lush, feathery backdrop for the colorful blossoms which tend to grow at the terminal ends of the stems. The appearance of sweet pea 'Starlight' is further enhanced by its climbing habit. This plant is known to gracefully twine around supports, which allows the cascade of flowers to drape elegantly, creating a romantic and picturesque display in any setting where it is given appropriate support to grow upon. The overall shape and silhouette of sweet pea 'Starlight' can be described as both airy and structured—a result of its climbing nature and the orderly arrangement of its leaves and flowers. Its visual impact comes not only from the individual beauty of each bloom but also from the collective display put forth when grown in a group, where the twining stems create a tapestry of foliage and color. This variety of sweet pea is a true testament to the simple beauty that can be found in the floral world, evoking a sense of charm and nostalgia.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae.
Synonyms
Sweet Pea, Everlasting Pea, Lathyrus.
Common names
Lathyrus odoratus.
ToxicityTo humans
Sweet pea 'Starlight' has seeds that are toxic if ingested in large quantities. They contain a compound called lathyrogens, which may cause a condition known as lathyrism if consumed in large enough doses. Symptoms of lathyrism include muscle weakness, paralysis, and potentially permanent neurological damage.
To pets
Sweet pea 'Starlight' can also be toxic to pets if ingested, primarily because of the seeds which contain lathyrogens that can cause lathyrism, just as in humans. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include vomiting, lethargy, seizures, and muscle tremors. Severe cases of lathyrism can lead to paralysis or more serious neurological issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Lathyrus odoratus 'Starlight', commonly known as Sweet Pea, has vibrant and fragrant flowers that enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Beneficial Insects: Sweet Pea flowers can attract bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators for many other plants.
- Versatility: The plant can be used in various garden designs, including borders, trellises, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Easy to Grow: Sweet Peas are known for being relatively easy to cultivate, making them suitable for novice gardeners.
- Seasonal Color: They provide a seasonal burst of color in the spring and summer months.
- Companion Planting: Sweet Peas are often used in companion planting to help support and enhance the growth of other plants in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Educational tool for students learning about plant breeding. Sweet pea 'Starlight' varieties can demonstrate how selective breeding can produce a cultivar with specific desirable traits like color or scent intensity.
- Photography prop for garden and lifestyle photographers. Its striking blooms and climbing nature provide an attractive backdrop or focal point in professional photographs.
- Art inspiration. The vibrant colors and patterns of Sweet pea 'Starlight' can inspire artists working in various mediums, from watercolor to textile design.
- Natural fabric dye. The petals of Sweet pea 'Starlight' can be used to create a natural dye for fabric with a range of pink and violet hues, depending on mordant used.
- Culinary decoration. Although not for consumption, the flowers can add an ornamental touch to plates and can be placed on top of desserts and other dishes for presentation.
- Festive garland. By stringing the stems together, one can create a fragrant and colorful garland for parties and weddings.
- Craft materials. Dried Sweet pea 'Starlight' flowers can be incorporated into handmade paper, potpourri, or pressed flower projects.
- Greeting cards enhancement. Fresh or dried Sweet pea 'Starlight' blooms can be used to embellish handmade greeting cards or invitations, giving them a three-dimensional and personalized touch.
- Botanical illustration subjects. They can be used as a reference for botanical illustrators practicing their art and capturing the fine details of floral structures.
- Perfume industry inspiration. The fragrance of Sweet pea 'Starlight' can inspire new scents in the perfume industry, though the actual extract is not typically used.
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: The sweet pea flower is often associated with pleasure thanks to its delightful fragrance, which is a source of enjoyment and sensory pleasure.
- Goodbye: In the language of flowers, sweet peas can symbolize departure or a farewell, as they were traditionally given to someone who is leaving or embarking on a new journey.
- Blissful Pleasure: A deeper extension of its general association with pleasure, the sweet pea can represent the idea of experiencing bliss or perfect happiness, sometimes in a fleeting moment.
- Thank You: Sweet peas can also be used to express gratitude, making them a thoughtful gift for someone you wish to thank.
- Delicate or Fleeting Beauty: The flower's delicate appearance and short lifespan may symbolize beauty that is appreciated in the moment but may not last forever.
WaterSweet Pea plants should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water, which equates to roughly 0.6 gallons per square yard. Their water needs can increase during hot or dry spells, possibly requiring additional waterings to maintain consistent soil moisture. It's crucial to avoid overhead watering to prevent water from settling on the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Instead, aim the water at the base of the plant to reach the roots directly. During rainy periods, reduce the amount of supplemental water to prevent over-saturation of the soil.
LightSweet Peas thrive in full sun, so it's best to position them in a spot where they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. They can tolerate partial shade but flowering may be reduced in less than ideal light conditions. Ensure they are planted in a location that isn't shaded by other plants or structures, especially during the prime sunny hours of the day.
TemperatureSweet Peas prefer cooler temperatures and will grow best when the daytime temperatures are between 55°F and 65°F. They can handle temperatures down to 25°F before they start suffering from frost damage but will not thrive in prolonged heat, especially if temperatures consistently exceed 75°F. To enjoy their blooms for a longer period, plant them in a location that offers some protection from intense afternoon heat.
PruningPruning Sweet Peas promotes bushier growth and increases flowering. Pinch back the tips when the plants are 4-6 inches tall to encourage side shoots. Regularly deadhead spent blooms to encourage new flowers to form. The best time to prune is during the early stages of growth and throughout the blooming period to maintain plant vigor and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Sweet Pea 'Starlight' should be well-draining and rich in organic matter, such as a blend of loam, peat moss, and perlite or sand. The pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline, in the range of 6.5 to 7.5.
RepottingSweet Pea 'Starlight' typically does not require frequent repotting as it is an annual plant; it should be sown directly into the garden or final container where it will bloom for a single season.
Humidity & MistingSweet Pea 'Starlight' thrives best in moderate relative humidity levels; avoid extremely high humidity to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, cool temps, and fresh air.
Outdoor
Full sun, shelter from strong winds, support for climbing.
Hardiness zone
Sweet Pea 'Starlight' is suitable for 3-8 USDA zones.
Life cycleThe life of the Sweet Pea 'Starlight' begins with seed germination, typically occurring when the soil has warmed up in spring. Following germination, the plant enters a vegetative stage where it develops a stem and leafy growth, often requiring support as it tends to climb. As the plant matures, it produces a profusion of fragrant flowers throughout the summer, thriving in cooler conditions. After pollination, often by bees, the flowers develop into pods containing seeds. As the growing season ends, the plant will set seed, and once the seeds have matured, the pods dry and the plant begins to wither, marking the end of its annual cycle. Over winter or in the next suitable growing season, the seeds may germinate to start the cycle anew if conditions are favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The Sweet Pea 'Starlight', known scientifically as Lathyrus odoratus 'Starlight', is most commonly propagated through seed sowing. The best time for sowing Sweet Pea seeds is either in late fall or early spring, capitalizing on cooler temperatures that facilitate germination. To propagate, first nick the seed coat with a file or soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer shell. After preparation, sow the seeds about 1 inch deep (2.54 cm) in well-draining soil and space them about 2 to 3 inches apart (5 to 7.6 cm). It's essential to provide support for the climbing vines early on. Germination occurs in 10 to 21 days, ideally in a location with full sun to partial shade. Maintaining consistent moisture during this period is critical for successful propagation.
