Sweet Pea 'Pink Panther'

At a Glance

Sweet Pea 'Pink Panther'

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Lathyrus odoratus
• Classification: Spencer
• Petal Pattern: Flush / Bicolour
• Color Profile: Pale almond-pink shading over a clean white background
• Fragrance: Moderate
• Breeder: Beane (Introduced by E. W. King & Co.)
• Year Introduced: 2007
• Flowering Type: Summer-Flowering

Overview

'Pink Panther' is a wonderfully romantic modern addition to the Spencer class, known for bringing soft, sophisticated pastel tones to the garden. The blooms display a delicate almond-pink hue that rests beautifully atop a crisp white base. Possessing the classic ruffled and waved petal structure of exhibition-grade Spencers, these large, moderately scented blossoms are a magnificent and reliable choice for both the summer border and the vase.

Growth Habit

Exhibiting the standard vigor of modern Spencer varieties, 'Pink Panther' is a robust, tall-climbing vine. To reach its full potential, it requires sturdy vertical support, such as netting, tall trellises, or bamboo teepees, allowing it to climb enthusiastically toward the sun throughout the growing season.

Cultivation Notes

To coax the most impressive, heavily frilled blooms from this vine, plant it in a sunny location with deeply enriched, well-draining soil. Because of its tall climbing habit, the stems should be tied in regularly to ensure the plant remains secure against its supports. Consistent harvesting and the diligent removal of faded blossoms are absolutely essential to prevent the plant from setting seed, thereby guaranteeing a continuous, uninterrupted flush of pale pink flowers all summer long.

Historical Notes

This beautifully subtle cultivar was bred by the contemporary sweet pea hybridizer Beane. It was officially introduced to commerce in 2007 by the historic and renowned British seed firm E. W. King & Co., adding a much-loved almond-pink option to the modern sweet pea registry.

In the Garden

Grown For: Soft, romantic cut flower arrangements, exhibition showing, and adding a delicate, pastel almond-pink hue to summer borders.

Companion Planting

To enhance its delicate almond-pink and white tones, pair it with crisp, solid whites like 'Wild Swan' or 'White Ensign'. Alternatively, planting it alongside a deeply saturated, moody variety like 'Seabrook's Fantasia' or 'Almost Black' will create a highly sophisticated, dramatic contrast.