Sweet Pea 'Seabrooks Fantasia'

At a Glance

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Lathyrus odoratus
• Classification: Spencer
• Petal Pattern: Self (Solid Color)
• Color Profile: Dark maroon
• Fragrance: Moderate
• Breeder: Beane (Introduced by E. W. King & Co.)
• Year Introduced: 2023 (first cataloged Autumn 2022)
• Flowering Type: Summer-Flowering

Overview

'Seabrook's Fantasia' is a captivating modern Spencer sweet pea distinguished by its deeply saturated, dark maroon blossoms. As a solid-colored "self" variety, it brings an air of velvety, dramatic elegance to the garden. Possessing the classic ruffled and frilled petals characteristic of the summer-flowering Spencer class, these intensely dark, scented flowers are a magnificent choice for both eye-catching garden displays and sophisticated floral arrangements.

Growth Habit

Exhibiting the robust vigor typical of modern Spencers, this variety is a tall-climbing vine. It requires substantial vertical support such as netting, tall trellises, or bamboo teepees to properly ascend toward the sun throughout the growing season.

Cultivation Notes

To achieve the finest ruffled blooms, plant 'Seabrook's Fantasia' in deeply enriched, well-draining soil in a sunny position. 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 essential to prevent the plant from going to seed, guaranteeing a continuous flush of dramatic maroon flowers all summer long.

Historical Notes

This deeply colored cultivar is a relatively recent addition to the sweet pea world. It was raised by the breeder Beane and officially introduced to commerce by the historic British seed firm E. W. King & Co. in 2023, making its initial debut in their autumn 2022 catalogue.

In the Garden

Grown For: Strikingly dark cut flower arrangements, exhibition use, and introducing a deep, moody anchor color into summer borders.

Companion Planting

To make its intensely dark maroon petals truly stand out, pair it with bright, pure whites like 'Wild Swan' or 'White Ensign'. Alternatively, blending it with delicate pale lavenders and blues like 'Bristol' or 'Frank Dolby' will create a highly sophisticated, contrasting palette.