Species

Lathyrus odoratusSweet Pea

15 other cultivars

perennial

Almost Black Sweet Pea

Lathyrus odoratus 'Almost Black'

The Story

Plant Bio

Sweet peas are known for their sweet fragrance and colorful flowers.

This cultivar, 'Almost Black', features deep, dark flowers that stand out in the garden.

Uses & Benefits:

Lathyrus odoratus 'Almost Black' offers highly fragrant, dark-colored blooms that add elegance and scent to gardens.

Supports climbing and vertical gardening, saving space and creating privacy screens.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesLathyrus odoratusSweet Pea

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

72 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Seeds are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds 1 inch deep in well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings with water and keep in bright, indirect light for root development.
Train vines on trellises or supports as they grow taller.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain shape.

Pro Tip

Soak seeds overnight to improve germination rate and speed up sprouting process.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for optimal flowering 🌞
Keep soil moist but not soggy 💧
Support climbing vines with trellises or stakes
Remove dead or faded flowers regularly
Apply organic compost annually for healthy growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Never neglect support for climbing stems
Avoid using chemical pesticides excessively
Don’t prune back all stems at once

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Pinch
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant climbing vine on trellisesSweet-smelling border along garden pathsVertical accent in cottage gardens

Companion Plants

Sweet Pea Lavender Marigolds Nasturtiums Cosmos

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Almost Black Sweet Pea questions

What zones can Almost Black Sweet Pea grow in?

Almost Black Sweet Pea is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Almost Black Sweet Pea deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Almost Black Sweet Pea, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Almost Black Sweet Pea bloom?

Almost Black Sweet Pea typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Almost Black Sweet Pea need full sun?

Almost Black Sweet Pea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.