Sweet pea 'Cupani' (Lathyrus odoratus 'Cupani')

Sweet pea 'Cupani'

Also known as: Common sweet pea 'Cupani'

Most sweet peas have purple flowers in their natural form, but sweet pea 'Cupani' is a showy plant with deep-violet blooms. This hybrid was found in 1692 in the wild by a Sicilian monk called Father Francis Cupani. This plant grows well in the garden, and with its long blooming period from spring through fall, it naturally attracts bees and butterflies.

Scientific classification

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

2 m

Spread

Summer dormancy, Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Care Guide for Sweet pea 'Cupani'

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Sweet pea 'Cupani', native to the Mediterranean, thrives in moderate humidity and occasional sea mists. As a drought-tolerant plant, it requires watering twice a week for optimal growth. Preferring full sun and outdoor cultivation, sweet pea 'Cupani' benefits from consistent moisture during its growing season.

Fertilize: Prepare soil for sweet pea 'Cupani' by mixing compost and bone meal. Fertilize every 2 weeks during the growing season with low nitrogen, high phosphate, and potassium. Use a 5-5-10 ratio fertilizer for seedlings and a 5-10-5 ratio during blooming to support root development and flower formation.

Pruning: Sweet pea 'Cupani' thrives with timely pruning. In early spring, remove dead stems and later pinch tips to encourage fullness. Regular deadheading promotes blooming and air circulation, reducing disease risk for a healthy plant. Cross-referenced with reputable horticultural guides.

Propagation: Sweet pea 'Cupani' is a hardy annual known for its fragrant flowers. Propagation involves a well-draining soil mix, consistent moisture, and light-exposed seeds. Germination occurs in 10-21 days, and thinning seedlings enhances growth. Using biodegradable pots can prevent transplant shock when relocating to the final site.

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