Petal Pals
other · Year unknown
Sweet Pea
Lathyrus odoratus
12 inches to 8 feet depending on variety
Height
Seasonal
Blooming
Full sun
Light
3–10
Zone
Plant & Flower Traits
Rose type
other
Bloom habit
Clusters of butterfly-shaped flowers on long stems.
Flowering
seasonal
Habit
climbing
Color
pink
Fragrance
very strong
Foliage
Green
Foliage surface
Leaves formed of two leaflets with tendrils on winged stems.
Fragrance Notes
Intense, complex, sweet, powdery, orange, jasmine, and honey.
Color Description
Light pink
🌱 Growth & Garden Habits
Light
Full sun
Height
12 inches to 8 feet depending on variety
Spread
1 to 6 feet
Soil
Deep, rich, moisture-retentive soil with a pH of 6.5–7.5.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 3–10
Disease Resistance
Susceptible to various fungal diseases including powdery mildew and root rot.
🌿 Care Guide
Watering
Regular, deep, and consistent; never let the soil dry out at the root.
Fertilizer
Apply a phosphorus-forward fertilizer (e.g., 14-72-14) monthly during the growing season; bone or blood meal can also be used.
Pruning
Pinch off the tops when plants are 6 inches tall to encourage bushy growth; deadhead or pick flowers every few days to prevent seed pod formation.
Pests & Diseases
Slugs, snails, Pythium root rot, powdery mildew, rust, gray mold, and leaf spots.