Sweet peas, with their delicate blooms and enchanting fragrance, are a beloved addition to gardens worldwide. But have you ever wondered if there’s another name for these captivating flowers? The answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple synonym. While “sweet pea” is the most common and universally recognized name, the story of their nomenclature is intertwined with botanical classification and common usage.
The Botanical Identity: Unpacking *Lathyrus odoratus*
The key to understanding alternative names for sweet peas lies in their scientific classification. Sweet peas belong to the genus Lathyrus and the species odoratus. This Latin name, Lathyrus odoratus, is the internationally recognized botanical name for the sweet pea. Let’s break down what this means.
Lathyrus is a large genus encompassing a wide variety of flowering plants, commonly known as peas or vetchlings. These plants belong to the Fabaceae family, also known as the legume family, which includes beans, lentils, and other familiar edible plants. Lathyrus species are characterized by their climbing habit, pinnate leaves (leaves composed of multiple leaflets arranged along a central stem), and pea-like flowers.
The term odoratus is derived from Latin and refers to the plant’s distinctive and pleasant fragrance. This is, of course, one of the most cherished characteristics of the sweet pea, setting it apart from many other Lathyrus species.
So, while Lathyrus odoratus isn’t exactly another name in the same way that “car” and “automobile” are synonyms, it’s the definitive scientific identifier for the sweet pea. When botanists, horticulturists, or gardeners need to be absolutely precise, they will use this Latin name.
“Everlasting Pea” and its Complications
You might encounter the term “everlasting pea” in discussions about sweet peas. However, this is where things get a bit tricky. “Everlasting pea” is most often used to refer to Lathyrus latifolius, a different species within the same Lathyrus genus.
Lathyrus latifolius is indeed a perennial plant, unlike Lathyrus odoratus, which is an annual. This means that Lathyrus latifolius will come back year after year, hence the name “everlasting pea.” It also boasts vibrant flowers, though they lack the intense fragrance of sweet peas. Furthermore, the seeds of Lathyrus latifolius are considered poisonous and should not be consumed.
Therefore, while “everlasting pea” might sound like a synonym for sweet pea, it’s crucial to understand that it refers to a different, albeit related, species. Confusing the two can lead to disappointment if you’re expecting the characteristic fragrance of sweet peas or, more seriously, to the consumption of poisonous seeds.
Regional and Colloquial Names: A Gardener’s Vernacular
Beyond the botanical and potentially misleading “everlasting pea,” sweet peas don’t have many widely recognized alternative common names. The flower is generally known and loved as the “sweet pea.” However, in some regions or within specific gardening communities, you might encounter more informal or colloquial terms.
These regional variations are less about entirely different names and more about descriptive phrases or nicknames that emphasize a particular aspect of the flower. For instance, someone might refer to them as “fragrant climbers” or “summer-scented peas” to highlight their key attributes. These aren’t formal alternative names, but rather descriptive ways of referencing the flower.
The lack of widespread alternative names likely stems from the sweet pea’s relatively recent history as a cultivated flower. While Lathyrus odoratus is native to the Mediterranean region, it wasn’t until the late 19th century that it gained widespread popularity thanks to the work of Scottish horticulturalist Henry Eckford. Eckford’s breeding efforts transformed the sweet pea from a relatively unremarkable wildflower into the vibrant and fragrant flower we know today.
Because the sweet pea’s rise to fame occurred relatively recently and was largely driven by standardized breeding and commercialization, the name “sweet pea” became firmly established and widely adopted.
Sweet Pea Cultivars: A World of Variety
While the species itself doesn’t have many alternative names, the cultivars of sweet peas are incredibly diverse, each boasting its own unique name. Cultivars are varieties of a plant that have been specifically bred for certain characteristics, such as flower color, size, fragrance, or disease resistance.
The world of sweet pea cultivars is vast and ever-expanding. Gardeners can choose from a dazzling array of colors, ranging from classic pastels to bold jewel tones. Some cultivars are known for their exceptionally strong fragrance, while others boast unique flower shapes or growth habits.
Examples of popular sweet pea cultivars include:
- ‘Cupani’: This is one of the oldest known sweet pea varieties, boasting a strong fragrance and a striking combination of maroon and purple petals.
- ‘ প্রায় (Almost Black)’: As the name suggests, this cultivar features exceptionally dark, almost black, flowers.
- ‘High Scent’: This cultivar is specifically bred for its intense and captivating fragrance.
- ‘Royal Family’: A popular series known for its strong stems and vibrant colors.
These are just a few examples of the many sweet pea cultivars available. Each cultivar has its own unique name, but all are ultimately variations of Lathyrus odoratus, the sweet pea.
Understanding the Importance of Correct Identification
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, understanding the correct identification of plants is crucial. Using the correct name, whether it’s the common name or the scientific name, ensures clear communication and prevents confusion.
Misidentification can lead to several problems:
- Incorrect care: Different plants have different needs. If you misidentify a plant, you might provide it with the wrong type of soil, fertilizer, or watering schedule, which can negatively impact its health and growth.
- Accidental poisoning: As we discussed earlier, some plants can be poisonous. Misidentifying a poisonous plant as an edible one can have serious consequences.
- Disappointment: If you’re expecting a specific type of flower or plant, misidentification can lead to disappointment when the plant doesn’t meet your expectations.
Therefore, taking the time to learn the correct names of plants is a worthwhile investment for any gardener.
Tips for Identifying Sweet Peas
If you’re unsure whether a plant is a sweet pea, here are some key characteristics to look for:
- Fragrance: Sweet peas are renowned for their intense and pleasant fragrance. This is one of the easiest ways to distinguish them from other Lathyrus species.
- Flower shape: Sweet pea flowers are pea-like in shape, with a distinctive “standard” (the large upper petal), “wings” (the two side petals), and “keel” (the two fused lower petals).
- Climbing habit: Sweet peas are climbing plants, typically growing to a height of 6-8 feet. They use tendrils to cling to supports such as trellises or fences.
- Pinnate leaves: Sweet pea leaves are pinnate, meaning they are composed of multiple leaflets arranged along a central stem.
- Annual growth: Sweet peas are annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season.
By carefully observing these characteristics, you can confidently identify sweet peas and avoid confusion with other similar plants.
Conclusion: Sweet Pea by Any Other Name…
While “sweet pea” is the most common and widely recognized name for Lathyrus odoratus, and “everlasting pea” refers to a different species entirely (Lathyrus latifolius), the essence of these fragrant climbers remains the same regardless of what you call them. Understanding the botanical classification and the nuances of common names helps us appreciate the diversity and beauty of the plant world. So, whether you refer to them as sweet peas, Lathyrus odoratus, or simply “those gorgeous fragrant climbers,” these beloved flowers will continue to delight gardeners and flower enthusiasts for generations to come. The important thing is to appreciate their unique charm and to ensure you are correctly identifying them for proper care and enjoyment.
What is the most common alternative name for sweet peas?
The most prevalent alternative name for sweet peas is simply “sweet pea.” This may seem redundant, but it’s a valid and widely used way to refer to the flower, particularly in casual conversation or gardening contexts. It avoids any confusion and maintains the straightforward identification of the fragrant, climbing plant we all know and love.
The addition of the word “peas” is also important, distinguishing these beautiful flowers from other plants and reinforcing their connection to the pea family (Fabaceae). While “sweet pea” can sometimes refer to the genus Lathyrus in a broader sense, it almost always alludes to the specific, cultivated varieties prized for their colorful blooms and delightful fragrance.
Are there any botanical synonyms for the sweet pea plant?
Botanically, the sweet pea is most accurately known as Lathyrus odoratus. This is the scientific name recognized universally, and any discussions of the plant in scientific literature will utilize this Latin nomenclature. It’s a vital tool for unambiguous identification, especially when considering the diverse range of species within the Lathyrus genus.
While Lathyrus odoratus is the accepted botanical name, you might occasionally encounter other, older synonyms that have fallen out of common usage. These are rarely used in modern botany but could appear in older gardening books or historical records. Understanding the current, accepted name is key for accurate research and communication.
Do different colors of sweet peas have unique nicknames?
No, different colors of sweet peas do not typically have unique, established nicknames. While individual gardeners or breeders might playfully assign names to specific cultivars with unique color patterns, these are generally not widespread or formally recognized. The primary focus remains on identifying the plant as a sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus), regardless of its color.
Instead of color-specific nicknames, sweet pea varieties are usually distinguished by their cultivar names, which often allude to their color or other unique characteristics, such as ‘Blue Velvet’ or ‘White Frills’. These cultivar names provide a more precise way to differentiate and discuss the diverse range of colors and forms within the sweet pea family.
Is “everlasting pea” another name for sweet pea?
No, “everlasting pea” is not simply another name for sweet pea, although the plants are related. “Everlasting pea” typically refers to the species Lathyrus latifolius, which is a perennial vine, unlike the annual sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus). While both belong to the same genus (Lathyrus) and share visual similarities, they possess distinct differences in their growth habits and characteristics.
The key difference lies in their longevity and fragrance. Sweet peas are known for their intense, sweet fragrance, which the everlasting pea lacks. Additionally, sweet peas are annual, meaning they complete their life cycle in one year, whereas everlasting peas are perennial, returning year after year.
Are there regional variations in the common name for sweet peas?
Generally, there aren’t significant regional variations in the common name “sweet pea.” The name is widely understood and used across different English-speaking regions, as well as in many other countries where the flower is cultivated. Its popularity and widespread cultivation have contributed to its consistent naming.
While the common name remains largely consistent, slight pronunciation or colloquial variations might exist within very specific local communities. However, these are usually minor and don’t significantly alter the understanding of the plant being referenced. The term “sweet pea” remains the universally accepted and recognized common name.
Does the term “cupid’s flower” relate to sweet peas?
While “cupid’s flower” isn’t a commonly known or widely used synonym for sweet peas, it’s plausible that this term has been used poetically or metaphorically to describe them due to their association with love and romance. The sweet pea’s delicate beauty, fragrant blooms, and historical symbolism of pleasure make it a fitting flower to associate with Cupid, the god of love.
However, it’s important to note that “cupid’s flower” is not a formal or botanically recognized alternative name for sweet peas. It’s more likely to be a poetic or evocative descriptor used in literary contexts or specific cultural settings, rather than a general synonym for the plant itself.
Could “garden pea” be confused with “sweet pea”?
Yes, “garden pea” can be easily confused with “sweet pea” due to the similar name and their relatedness within the pea family (Fabaceae). However, they are distinct plants cultivated for very different purposes. Garden peas (Pisum sativum) are grown for their edible pods and seeds, while sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) are grown for their ornamental flowers and fragrance.
It’s crucial to differentiate between the two when discussing gardening or culinary matters to avoid confusion. Garden peas are a staple vegetable crop, while sweet peas are primarily appreciated for their aesthetic qualities. While both belong to the pea family, their uses and cultivation techniques are vastly different.