Sweet Pea 'Frances Kate'

At a Glance

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Lathyrus odoratus
• Classification: Spencer
• Petal Pattern: Stripe
• Color Profile: Navy blue to dark violet striping over a white background
• Fragrance: Scented
• Breeder: Roger Parsons
• Year Introduced: 2011
• Flowering Type: Summer-Flowering

Overview

'Frances Kate' is a spectacular modern addition to the Spencer class, celebrated for its wonderfully frilly and ruffled blooms. The flowers exhibit a highly attractive contrast, featuring striking dark violet or navy-blue striped markings set vividly against a crisp white ground. This eye-catching pattern and elegant wavy petal structure make it a standout choice for both garden displays and floral arrangements.

Growth Habit

Typical of standard Spencer sweet peas, this variety is a robust, tall-climbing vine. It vigorously ascends throughout the summer season and requires sturdy vertical support, such as a tall trellis, netting, or bamboo teepees, to reach its full height.

Cultivation Notes

To ensure the most spectacular, heavily frilled blooms, plant 'Frances Kate' in a sunny location with deeply enriched, well-draining soil. Because it is a tall climber, the stems should be tied in regularly to keep the vine secure against its supports. Diligent harvesting and the prompt removal of spent blossoms are essential to prevent the plant from setting seed, which will encourage a continuous flush of striped flowers throughout the summer.

Historical Notes

This beautiful striped cultivar was raised by the renowned contemporary sweet pea expert and breeder, Roger Parsons, and was officially introduced to the market in 2011. He lovingly named this spectacular variety in honor of his own daughter, Frances Kate.

In the Garden

Grown For: Striking cut flower arrangements, exhibition purposes, and adding a dramatic, contrasting novelty to the summer garden.

Companion Planting

To make its dark navy and violet stripes truly pop, pair it with solid, crisp whites like 'Wild Swan' or deeply saturated, moody dark varieties like 'Almost Black' to echo its dark violet markings.