Lathyrus odoratus 'Spencer Mix' (Sweet Pea)

Common name: Sweet Pea 'Spencer Mix'

Description: Lathyrus odoratus 'Spencer Mix' is a classic cottage garden sweet pea in the renowned Spencer tradition, producing large, elegantly wavy-petalled flowers in a beautiful range of colours including pinks, lavenders, purples, reds, and whites, all with the outstanding fragrance that makes sweet peas one of the most treasured of all summer-flowering plants. Spencer varieties were developed over a century ago and remain the benchmark for large-flowered sweet peas, offering long cutting stems, superb flower form, and a fragrance that is simply without equal in the garden. A must-grow for cutting and for filling the summer garden with scent.

Other benefits: classic Spencer flower form with wavy petals; outstanding fragrance; long cutting stems; excellent for cottage garden and formal cutting gardens

Wildlife attraction: bees, bumblebees, and butterflies

Height & spread (approx.) at maturity: 1.5–2m (climbing, with support)

Position: full sun; requires sturdy support — canes, trellis, or bean frame; sheltered from strong winds

Soil pH: neutral (pH 6.5–7.5); fertile, deeply prepared, well-drained soil; add organic matter and lime on acid soils

Moisture: regular consistent watering essential; feed with a balanced fertiliser and pick regularly to extend flowering season

Winter hardiness: half-hardy annual; sow under glass from late winter or direct outdoors in spring