Home and Landscape
Sweet Pea
- Lathyrus odoratus
- Family Fabaceae (Pea family)
Plant Identification
Sweet peas are either annual or perennial plants. Some are trailing types that may trail over rocks, fences, or trellises. Bush types may do well in borders, beds, or pots. Flowers have one large round petal surrounded by two narrow side petals and two lower petals. Flowers vary in color and may be pink, red, purple, white, or blue. They bloom in late spring and summer and even through the fall in cool climates. Sweet peas attract butterflies.
Optimum conditions for growth
Sweet peas do well in areas with full sun. Water requirements vary by species. Regular fertilizing keeps plants healthy. In warm winter areas, plant early for early spring bloom.
