Take the sweet pea Lathyrus sativus var. blue For example, with its small bright blue flowers with a hint of pink, held in a cluster of narrow leaves. It would be suitable for growing in a hanging basket to hang down the side, or in a sunny spot in a gravel garden. Prune after the first flush of flowers to encourage new growth and more flowers. It is an annual, so collect some seed after the flowers have faded and sow again the following spring.
Lathyrus belinensis has small, eye-catching yellow flowers, the upper petals are veined with terracotta red. This is another annual plant that is suitable for growing in tubs and pots, with a gentle creeping and rolling habit, or for climbing onto a small support where it will grow to around 90cm in height. The flowers are fragrant, although not with the same scent as traditional sweet peas.
Mark change by climbing Lathyrus clymenum ‘Chelsea’, another annual that’s perfect in an archway, where it’ll add a splash of colour – think of it mixed in with a climbing rose or a honeysuckle. It makes up for its size with its flowers – bright red – and lush, fern-like leaves.
‘Hotham Red’ – an annual cultivar Annual Bricks – has delicate coral flowers, is one of the earliest species Lathyrus flowers appear.
Chatsworth is a fitting flower show for the National Sweet Pea Society – the late Duchess of Devonshire was Patron of the Society for many years. She was an avid grower and exhibitor of sweet peas, and added many sweet peas to the Chatsworth House kitchen and cutting garden. Since her death in 2015, Alan Titchmarsh has taken over the role.
Learn more about joining the National Sweet Pea Association here.
