A Week of Sweet Pea

Monday's Quote
“Here are sweet peas, on tiptoe for a flight; With wings of gentle flush o'er delicate white, And taper fingers catching at all things, To bind them all about with tiny rings.”

― John Keats

Tuesday's Plant Profile
One of April’s beautiful birth flowers is the Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus). As the name suggests, they’re known for having an intense fragrance. This Italian native bloom has been a popular one to cultivate since the late 17th century and is still just as beloved today. 

Image via: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sweet_pea

Witchy Wednesday
The Sweet Pea with its bewitching aroma has long been associated with relationships, both romantic and friendly. It helps create an air of safety, which attracts deep love and trust. It can inspire creativity and intentionally choosing the color of the bloom can enhance the magic. 

Image via: https://flowerfairies.com/sweet-pea-fairies/

Thursday Healing
The Sweet Pea plant is commonly considered unsafe for consumption. The seeds are toxic, and while there are reports of their high vitamin content, processing them properly is difficult. Professionally made extracts of the plant can be used cosmetically for skin inflammation.

Image via: https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/lathyrus/odoratus/

Fridays in the Garden
Since Sweet Peas prefer the weather to be a bit cooler than what we’re used to, it’s best to find heat tolerant varieties like ‘Old Spice’. Start early and give them moist soil, plenty of gentle sunlight, and something to climb, you’ll have loads of gorgeous blooms by Springtime! 

Image via: https://www.almanac.com/plant/sweet-peas

Saturday Lore
As Sweet Pea travelled the globe, so did its impact. The Victorian Era was known for Floriography (the Language of Flowers) and this bloom was a popular parting gift. A sweet way to say thank you while having to say goodbye to a loved one. Simply put, “blissful pleasure”.

Image via: https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20221012-the-flowers-that-send-a-hidden-message

It's Sunday, Let's Cook!
The common Sweet Pea is toxic and should not be eaten. Other varieties of Lathyrus have been consumed by humans for ages and are vitamin rich. Once such an edible is the Beach Pea (Lathyrus japonicus) is considered quite delicious, and this preparation seems both easy and tasty! 

Image and Recipe via: https://www.seashoretoforestfloor.com/wild-edible-beach-pea/