Contents
Description
Lathyrus Odoratus Dave Thomas, commonly known as sweet pea, is a popular annual flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Sicily, southern Italy, and the Aegean Islands but has been widely cultivated in gardens around the world.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
Appearance
Sweet peas have slender, climbing stems that can grow up to six feet tall. The leaves are green and oval-shaped, and the flowers are fragrant and come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, white, and red. The flowers have a distinctive shape, with a large upper petal, two smaller side petals, and two lower petals that form a keel.
Care Guide
Sweet peas require regular watering, especially during dry periods. They also need regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. A well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter is best for sweet peas. They prefer full sun to partial shade and are hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sweet peas are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. It is important to regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation and treat accordingly. Proper sanitation and good cultural practices, such as avoiding overhead watering, can also help prevent pest and disease problems.
Habitat
Sweet peas are commonly grown in gardens and containers around the world. They are also used in floristry, particularly in the production of cut flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my sweet peas?
A: Sweet peas require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can sweet peas grow in partial shade?
A: Yes, sweet peas can grow in partial shade but prefer full sun to produce the most flowers.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for sweet peas?
A: A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 blend, is best for sweet peas.
Q: How long do sweet pea flowers last?
A: Sweet pea flowers typically last for about a week but can vary depending on growing conditions and cultivar.
Related Plants
- Lathyrus latifolius (Perennial sweet pea)
- Lathyrus tingitanus (Tangier pea)
- Lathyrus sativus (Grass pea)
References
- University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Sweet Peas. Retrieved from https://extension.illinois.edu/sweetpea/
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Lathyrus odoratus ‘Dave Thomas’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/16258/lathyrus-odoratus-dave-thomas/details
- BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. (2019). How to grow sweet peas. Retrieved from https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-sweet-peas/
