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Description
Lathyrus odoratus Valerie Harrod, also known as sweet pea, is a flowering plant that is a favorite among gardeners. This plant is native to Italy, and it has been grown in gardens for centuries. It is a climbing plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall, with fragrant flowers that bloom in shades of pink and white. The flowers are known for their sweet scent, which is why they are called sweet peas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
Appearance
Lathyrus odoratus Valerie Harrod has delicate, papery flowers that grow in clusters on long stems. The flowers are typically pink or white, and they have a sweet fragrance that is reminiscent of honey or violets. The leaves of this plant are oval-shaped and bright green, and they grow in pairs along the stem. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
To keep your Lathyrus odoratus Valerie Harrod healthy and thriving, it is important to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Sweet peas need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply once a week, or more often in very hot weather.- Fertilization: Sweet peas benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Add compost to the soil before planting.- Sunlight: Sweet peas prefer full sun to partial shade. Plant them in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 2-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lathyrus odoratus Valerie Harrod is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common issues:- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap out of the plant, causing it to weaken and die. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves of the plant. Use a fungicide to treat it.- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause the leaves of the plant to turn yellow and fall off. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Habitat
Lathyrus odoratus Valerie Harrod is native to Italy, but it can be grown in many different climates. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. This plant can be grown in containers or in the ground, and it makes a great addition to any garden.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Lathyrus odoratus Valerie Harrod?
A: You should water your sweet peas deeply once a week, or more often in very hot weather.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Lathyrus odoratus Valerie Harrod?
A: Sweet peas benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What are some common pests that affect Lathyrus odoratus Valerie Harrod?
A: Aphids and spider mites are two common pests that can affect sweet peas.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lathyrus odoratus Valerie Harrod?
A: This plant is hardy in zones 2-11.
Related Plants
– Lathyrus odoratus ‘Cupani’- Lathyrus odoratus ‘Matucana’- Lathyrus odoratus ‘Painted Lady’- Lathyrus odoratus ‘Old Spice’
References
– RHS. (n.d.). Lathyrus odoratus ‘Valerie Harrod’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/313980/Lathyrus-odoratus-Valerie-Harrod/Details- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Lathyrus odoratus ‘Valerie Harrod’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a862
