White Sweet Pea ‘Ice Cream’ (Lathyrus odoratus) seeds
- Pure White Blooms with a Nostalgic Scent – An Elegant Summer Flower for Trellises, Bouquets & Early Sowing
- Contents: Approx.15 seeds.
- Open-pollinated variety, seed tested regularly
€2.59
Description
Classic Sweet Pea in Radiant White
The Sweet Pea ‘Ice Cream’ (Lathyrus odoratus) is an elegant variety from the classic Spencer group, distinguished by its large, ivory-white blooms with delicately ruffled petals. The colour is pure and refined – ideal for white gardens, soft bouquets, or as a contrast to bold tones in borders.
Introduced by Burpee in 1959, this variety is known for its intensely sweet fragrance, typical of traditional sweet peas. Its delicate appearance, combined with its lush scent, makes it a perfect choice for scented gardens, balconies, and classic cottage-style plantings.
This annual climber grows up to 150cm in height with support and prefers sunny to partially shaded positions in humus-rich, well-drained soil. Its long stems make it an excellent cut flower. The pods are inedible but contain viable seeds for propagation.
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 | White |
| 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, Spencer type
- Sowing: From February under cover or directly outdoors from March; autumn sowing also possible
- Germination: At 12–16°C; seeds may be pre-soaked in water for 12–24 hours
- Position: Full sun to partial shade; well-drained, nutrient-rich soil
- Growth height: Up to approx. 150cm with support
- Special features: Cool Flower – early sowing promotes strong plants and an early flush of blooms
With its pure white colour, captivating fragrance and easy cultivation, the Sweet Pea ‘Ice Cream’ delights garden enthusiasts, fragrance lovers and admirers of nostalgic flower classics alike.
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
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