Description
Lathyrus Odoratus 'Matucana', often regarded as one of the oldest and most fragrant varieties of sweet pea, was first introduced to the UK from Sicily in 1699. This delightful heirloom is prized for its stunning bicoloured blooms of rich purple and violet, as well as its exceptionally strong, sweet fragrance.
This very heavy-blooming vine produces clusters of 2 to 4 blooms per stem along its 1.8m length. They are perfect for trellises or on a wire mesh support. The blossoms, measuring around 4cm across, make for beautiful cut flowers.
Key Details:
- Flower Colour: Purple/Violet
- Planting Period: Sept - Nov or Jan/Feb
- Position: Full sun
- Soil Type: Moist but Well-drained soil
- Flowering Period: May to July
- Hardiness: Half-hardy (H3)
- Plant Height: 1.8m
- Plant Spread: Varied depending on support
Sowing
- Use rootrainers or deep grower pots
- Soak seeds before planting for better germination
- Plant seeds 2cm below surface and avoid over crowding them
- Sowing distance: 20cm apart
- Sowing depth: Surface sow and cover a light sprinkle of soil
Deadheading
- Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering.
- Cut back to the first leaf below the flower head.
Harvesting/Cutting
- Harvest when buds are coloured but not open. This prolongs their vase life and protects them from insects.
- Harvest regularly to encourage more growth
Contents: 20 seeds per pack.
