Bicolour Sweet Pea ‘Matucana’ (Lathyrus odoratus) seeds
- From the Andes to the scented garden – ancient variety with an incomparable fragrance & striking bicoloured blooms
- Contents: Approx.15 seeds.
- Open-pollinated variety, seed tested regularly
€2.59
Description
A Fragrant Classic from the Old World
Sweet Pea 'Matucana' (Lathyrus odoratus) is one of the oldest known varieties and originally hails from Peru. It is considered a near-original form of the wild species introduced to Europe in the 18th century – and remains famous for its intensely sweet fragrance, unmatched to this day.
Its bicolour blooms in deep purple and violet are smaller than those of modern cultivars, yet all the more charming and striking. With its nostalgic growth habit and wonderfully scented flowers, it is perfect for romantic gardens, trellises and fragrant borders.
The plants reach up to 150 cm in height with climbing support and thrive in sunny to semi-shaded locations with well-drained, humus-rich soil. The non-edible seed pods can be harvested for propagation in the following season.
Plant profile
| Plant type | Climber, Container plant, Summer flower |
|---|---|
| Use | Container plant, Cut flower, Ornamental plant, Scented plant |
| Lifecycle | Annual |
| Species | Fabaceae |
| Region of origin | Asia Minor, Italy |
| Characteristics | Needs darkness to germinate |
| Eventual height | 100-150 cm |
| Flower colour | Lilac, Purple |
| Flowering months | August, July, June |
Growing instructions
| When to sow outdoors | April, August, March, October, September |
|---|---|
| Sowing depth | 2-3 cm |
| Germination temperature | 15-20°C |
| Germination time | 1-2 weeks |
| Climate | Temperate |
| Soil type | Deep, Free-draining, Fresh, Nutrient-rich |
| Sunlight | Full sun |
| Water requirement | Medium |
| Planting distance | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 50 cm |
Sowing and care
Sowing and Care of Lathyrus odoratus
- Plant type: Annual climbing plant, heritage sweet pea variety
- Sowing: From February indoors or directly outdoors from March; autumn sowing also possible
- Germination: At 12–16?°C; optionally soak seeds in water for 12–24 hours before sowing
- Location: Sunny to semi-shaded, well-drained and nutrient-rich soil
- Height: Up to approx. 150?cm with climbing support
- Special features: Cool Flower – early sowing ensures strong plants and an early flowering period
With its historical legacy, exceptional fragrance, and vivid bicolour blooms, Sweet Pea 'Matucana' is an essential choice for lovers of scented gardens and traditional flower treasures.
Other names
Botanical name: Lathyrus odoratus
German: Dufterbse, Duftwicke, Duftende Platterbse, Wilderbse, Edelwicke, Prunkerbse, Ziererbse, Wohlriechende Wicke
English: Sweet Pea, Wild Pea, Vetchling
French: Pois de senteur
Italian: Pisello odoroso
Spanish: Guisante de olor
Login
