LIFE CYCLE
Annual flowering vine
PLANT CHARACTERISTICS
Climbing tendrils
GROWTH HABIT
Upright
BLOOM SEASON
Late spring to early fall
FLAVOUR PROFILE
Ornamental
SUITABLE FOR
Outdoor
SEED TYPE
Direct sow seeds
PLANT TYPE
Annual flowering vine
PLANTING SEASON
Spring / Late Winter
FRUIT SIZE
N/A
PLANT HEIGHT
Up to 150–180 cm
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Full Sun
WATER NEEDS
Moist
HARDINESS ZONES
Annual
CONTAINER GARDEN
Yes
PLANTING DEPTH
2–3 cm
PLANT SPACING
30–45 cm
GROWING CONDITIONS
Well-drained rich soil
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sweet pea seeds or pods edible like garden peas?
Are sweet pea seeds or pods edible like garden peas?
No, ornamental sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus) seeds and pods are toxic if eaten and should never be confused with edible garden peas, despite the similar "pea" name and pod appearance.
What does "Incense" refer to in this sweet pea variety's name?
What does "Incense" refer to in this sweet pea variety's name?
It likely points to a highly fragrant heirloom-type sweet pea, since "Incense" style names are often used for strains bred specifically for strong classic sweet pea scent.
Do all sweet peas smell as strongly as older heirloom varieties?
Do all sweet peas smell as strongly as older heirloom varieties?
Not necessarily; some modern sweet pea varieties bred for bigger or longer-lasting blooms have reduced fragrance compared to traditional fragrant heirloom types.
How will this variety perform if my summers are hot rather than cool?
How will this variety perform if my summers are hot rather than cool?
Since sweet peas strongly prefer cool growing conditions, hot summer weather can cause blooming to stall early, so planting as early as possible in spring helps maximize the flowering window.
Why does regularly picking the flowers encourage more blooms?
Why does regularly picking the flowers encourage more blooms?
Picking flowers before they form seed pods prevents the plant from shifting energy into seed production, which otherwise signals the plant to slow down flowering.
What kind of support works best for its climbing tendrils?
What kind of support works best for its climbing tendrils?
Because sweet peas climb with thin, delicate tendrils, netting or mesh support tends to work better than thick trellis slats, which can be too wide for the tendrils to grip.