July Spotlight: Sweet Peas
Ellie Jones
Credit: Ruby Moon Floral
Sweet pea flowers, scientifically known as Lathyrus odoratus, are a quintessential summer bloom. Their vibrant colours and enchanting fragrance make them a beloved addition to bouquets and arrangements.
Sweet peas have a rich history in the UK, dating back to the late 17th century. They gained popularity during the Victorian era and then in the early 1900s, renowned horticulturist Henry Eckford bred sweet peas into the diverse and colourful range we know today.
They belong to the legume family and are annual climbing plants, known for their tendrils that help them cling to trellises & supports, as well as provide beautiful tumbling visual lines to floral arrangements.
Our temperate maritime climate is ideal for sweet pea cultivation and the flowers thrive in cool, moist conditions. In the spring, they can withstand cooler temperatures and in the summer, they bask in the milder warmth.
The dainty, butterfly-shaped petals of Sweet Peas can be found in an array of colours, from soft pastels to deep, vibrant hues but beyond these visually enticing colours, they have another trick up their sleeve - a glorious scent. Their sweet, heady scent is a true embodiment of summer in the UK and the addition of sweet peas can turn any arrangement into a sensory paradise.
If you’re thinking about flowers for an October wedding or event and you would like to discuss seasonal availability then get in touch and keep an eye on the Bouquets for Days Instagram for more seasonal ingredients making an appearance throughout the month.