Climbing tendrils carry waves of intensely fragrant butterfly flowers in spring, unbeatable for picking. Traditionally sown around St Patrick's Day; the seeds and pods are toxic if eaten.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 2 m H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Sweet Pea
Lathyrus odoratus is a fast-growing climber in the Fabaceae family. It reaches around 2 m tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Pink, purple, red, white and blue flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Sweet Pea
Sweet Pea suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Sweet Pea provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Sweet Pea is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Sweet Pea after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Sweet Pea in the garden
Sweet Pea earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, its fragrance, feeding bees and pollinators and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Sweet Pea with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children.
Buying Sweet Pea
Plant Sale lists Sweet Pea as seed. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Sweet Pea seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.