Sweet pea - Lathyrus odoratus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Sweet pea

Also known as: Common sweet pea

Sweet pea is a staple of flowering climbers and has been since the Victorian era. The sweet pea, which uses tendrils to climb when correct supports are available, grows to a height of 1.02 m – 2 m. The highly fragrant flowers are purple when found in the wild, but domesticated cultivars can be found in nearly every color.

Scientific classification

Species

Sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

2 cm to 3.5 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Red, Purple, White, Pink, Blue, Orange, Yellow, Violet

Flower Color

Green, Red, Purple

Stem Color

Summer dormancy, Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Sweet pea

Distribution of Sweet pea

Distribution Map

Sweet pea is native to Italy. It is found among woodlands, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It was introduced to countries in the following continents; Asia, Africa, and North & South America. Sweet pea is invasive in New Zealand.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated Beds

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Sweet pea is a popular annual used as a climber or in pots or beds. As a climber, it will need to be staked, or it will run over the ground. With many colors to choose from, gardeners often mix and match colors for a striking floral display in pollinator gardens. Good companion plants are sweet alyssum, lavender, and catmint.

Symbolism

The ideas of departures and goodbyes, blissful pleasure, be used to say thank you

Interesting Facts

Although sweet pea is a member of the legume family, it is not edible and is actually poisonous. However, this legume has been used extensively in genetic research, specifically the work of Reginald Punnett. Traits such as self-pollination, color, and height make this plant an excellent research subject.

Name Story

Sweet pea: As a legume plant, its flowers are colorful and they are widely regarded as one of the favorites in the garden. Since it produces a strong sweet smell, it is called sweet pea.

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Toxicity

Sweet pea seeds are toxic, causing symptoms like difficulty breathing, convulsions, and paralysis in people, dogs, and cats. Immediate medical attention is required for poisoning. For pets, symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Keep sweet pea away from children and animals to prevent ingestion and ensure safety.

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Quickly Identify Sweet pea

Showy, fragrant flowers in various colors, never yellow

Pinnate leaves with narrow, ovate to lanceolate leaflets

Winged, herbaceous stems with twining growth habit

Elongated clusters of pea-like flowers, 1-2 inches in diameter

Terminal tendrils aiding in climbing, prominent and parallel leaf veins

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Care Guide for Sweet pea

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Sweet pea thrives in moist soil, requiring weekly watering to avoid waterlogging. Ideally cultivated outdoors, it develops a vining growth habit and produces fragrant flowers during its active growing season, reflecting its temperate region origins.

Fertilize: Sweet pea benefits from a high-phosphorus fertilizer for blooming and root health. Fertilize bi-weekly during growth, increase in spring, and taper in late summer. Water before and after fertilization to protect roots and enhance absorption. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent foliage dominance over flowers.

Pruning: Sweet pea thrives with proper pruning in early to late spring, removing weak stems and pinching tips to enhance bushiness. Clean cuts above leaf nodes direct energy to blooms, while deadheading spent flowers extends the flowering period, promoting healthy growth and vibrant flowers.

Propagation: Sweet pea, a climbing annual, is propagated by sowing seeds in well-draining soil. Pre-soaking seeds can improve germination. Sow at a depth of 1-2 cm. Consistent moisture is vital; avoid waterlogging. Thinning seedlings may be necessary to prevent overcrowding for optimal growth.

Repotting: The plant sweet pea requires excellent drainage when potted to ensure healthy growth and prevent root rot. Proper potting techniques include using well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes to facilitate adequate moisture management.

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Images of Sweet pea

Distribution of Sweet pea

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Sweet pea

Care Guide for Sweet pea

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