Sweet Pea

lathyrus odoratus

Also known as: ["Garden Sweet Pea","Annual Sweet Pea"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Lathyrus Category: Flowers

Overview

A fragrant annual vine in the legume family, known for its colorful, pea-like flowers and climbing habit.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Lathyrus
Botanical Name: Lathyrus odoratus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: trellis or fence in garden, or container with support
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Fragrance Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed; after flowering or in early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerate partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Morning sun is ideal; rotate plants for even growth; avoid direct midday sun in summer.

Watering

every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water at the base to avoid foliage disease; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.

Soil

well-draining, fertile, loamy soil

pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay; enrich with compost.

Temperature

60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerate cooler nights but avoid frost.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air flow.

Fertilizing

every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in spring and summer

Dilute to half strength; avoid over-fertilizing; stop before flowering.

Propagation

Methods

Seed sowing; stem cuttings (less common).

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Sow seeds 1 inch deep.
  2. Keep moist.
  3. Thin seedlings.
  4. Or take cuttings, apply hormone, and place in medium.

Best Time: Spring or early summer for seeds; late spring for cuttings.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining seed starting mix or perlite/vermiculite mix.

Hormone

Not typically needed for seeds; optional for cuttings.

Timeline

Seeds germinate in 7–14 days; cuttings root in 3–4 weeks.

Tools Needed

Seed trays, pots, labels, watering can, optional rooting hormone.

Quick Tips

Soak seeds overnight for faster germination; use bottom heat for seeds.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; remove spent flowers.

Pruning Plan

Focus on removing dead or weak growth to encourage flowering.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, clean knife.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot annually or when roots fill the pot; supports vigorous growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone without waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in winter; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowering may decline in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; improve air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth.

Fertilizing Method

Balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during growing season; reduce in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Lathyrus odoratus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or may be caused by water stress, pests, or diseases like viral infections or chlorosis.

Wilting in Lathyrus odoratus is often a sign of water stress, either due to under-watering or over-watering leading to root rot. It can also result from pest infestations or diseases affecting the vascular system.

Leaf spots on Lathyrus odoratus are typically caused by fungal pathogens such as Ascochyta or Cercospora, leading to defoliation, reduced photosynthesis, and weakened plant vigor.

Rotting in Lathyrus odoratus, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by fungal pathogens like Fusarium or Rhizoctonia in poorly drained soil, leading to plant decline and death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to lathyrism if they consume large quantities of Lathyrus odoratus seeds or beans. The condition can cause progressive paralysis and muscle weakness, similar to that in humans and dogs.

⚠️ Symptoms:
limping weakness paralysis difficulty walking
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds beans
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Keep the plant out of reach of cats. Seek veterinary care immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of large amounts of Lathyrus odoratus seeds or beans can lead to lathyrism, characterized by progressive paralysis and muscle weakness. The condition is rare but serious if untreated.

⚠️ Symptoms:
limping weakness paralysis difficulty walking
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds beans
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Monitor pets closely if they have access to the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Lathyrus odoratus contains amino acids that can cause lathyrism, a neuromuscular disorder, when consumed in large amounts over time. The toxic effects are primarily neurological and can lead to paralysis if not addressed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
weakness paralysis difficulty walking muscle pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds beans
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Avoid consuming large quantities of seeds or beans. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I grow Sweet Peas from seed?

A: Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil after the last frost, providing support for climbing. Seeds can be soaked overnight to speed germination.

Q: Why are my Sweet Pea flowers not fragrant?

A: Ensure the variety is known for fragrance, and plant in full sun for optimal scent production.

Q: Are Sweet Peas edible?

A: While the flowers are sometimes used in culinary decorations, the seeds and pods of Lathyrus odoratus are mildly toxic if ingested and should not be consumed.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 5–7 days during active
Suitable For: ["beginners","fragrance lovers","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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