Lathyrus odoratus ‘White Frills’: A Ruffled Masterpiece of Scent and Elegance
Among the finest of the classic Spencer-type Sweet Peas, Lathyrus odoratus ‘White Frills’ or Sweet Pea ‘White Frills’ stands out as a true garden showstopper. Renowned for its elegant, ruffled white blooms and heady perfume, this hardy annual has earned its place as one of the best white-flowered varieties available. Bred by Truslove and Kerton, ‘White Frills’ is more than just a pretty climber — it’s a highly productive, exhibition-worthy variety that performs beautifully in beds, borders, and containers.
Whether you’re growing it for its delicate beauty, irresistible scent, or a constant supply of long-stemmed cut flowers, ‘White Frills’ is a reliable and rewarding choice. As a member of the Fabaceae family, it also contributes to soil enrichment by fixing nitrogen — a bonus for eco-minded gardeners.
Sweet Pea ‘White Frills’ is a beloved annual that blooms from late spring into early summer, producing a profusion of pure white, frilled flowers. This Spencer-type variety attracts bees and butterflies with its rich fragrance and abundant nectar, making it an excellent choice for pollinator-friendly gardens. Despite its strong appeal to beneficial insects, deer tend to avoid it, which adds to its value in landscapes where browsing is a problem. Its combination of elegance, fragrance, and resilience makes it a standout in any sunny garden.
The Beauty and Charm of Sweet Pea ‘White Frills’
Lathyrus odoratus ‘White Frills’ features long stems lined with large, pure white flowers. Each bloom is elaborately frilled, offering a soft, romantic touch to any garden setting. But it’s not just about looks — this variety is exceptionally fragrant, with a rich, sweet scent that makes it ideal for cutting and bringing indoors. In fact, the more you harvest the flowers, the more the plant will bloom.
This vine typically reaches heights of 1.8–2.4 meters (6–8 feet) and spreads about 30–45 cm (12–18 inches), making it perfect for vertical growing along trellises, fences, arches, or obelisks. Its thick, robust foliage and strong growth habit also help it withstand wind and summer wear, providing structure and visual height to garden designs.
How to Grow Lathyrus odoratus ‘White Frills’
Light
Sweet Pea ‘White Frills’ thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct light per day. In hotter climates, especially Zones 8–10, it benefits from afternoon shade to prolong flowering. For best results, select a site that is sunny, warm, and protected from strong winds.
Soil
Sweet Peas prefer rich, fertile, and well-drained soils. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0) is ideal. Before planting, enrich the soil with well-rotted compost or organic manure. Avoid heavy clay unless it has been amended for drainage.
Watering
Provide consistent, moderate watering. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy, offering about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of water per week if rainfall is insufficient. Water at the base of the plant to prevent mildew and leaf disease. Avoid overhead watering, especially in the evening.
Fertilizing
Although Sweet Peas are nitrogen-fixing legumes, they still benefit from regular feeding. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10 or similar) every two weeks during the growing season. High-phosphorus and potassium fertilizers help support abundant blooming.
Support and Training
As a climbing vine, ‘White Frills’ requires sturdy support. Use a trellis, pea netting, bamboo teepees, or wire mesh. Secure the supports early, before planting, to avoid root disturbance later. Pinch the growing tips when plants reach 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) tall to encourage side branching and bushier growth. Remove tendrils if you’re growing for cut flowers to keep stems straighter and more manageable.
Sowing and Germination
Cool Climates (Zones 7 and Below)
- Start seeds indoors 10–12 weeks before the last expected frost.
- Soak seeds for 24 hours before sowing to improve germination.
- Transplant outdoors in very early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked.
Mild to Warm Climates (Zones 8–10)
- Sow seeds directly in the garden in late fall.
- Seeds will establish over winter and bloom in late winter to early spring.
- Protect from extreme frost if necessary.
Plant seeds about 2.5 cm (1 inch) deep and 7–10 cm (3–4 inches) apart. In rows, allow about 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) of space between rows for airflow and maintenance.
Germination takes 7–15 days, depending on soil temperature and seed quality.
Deadheading and Flower Production
To maximize flower production, deadhead spent blooms regularly. Remove seedpods promptly to prevent the plant from going to seed prematurely. For cut flowers, harvest stems when the first bud in the cluster begins to open. Frequent harvesting stimulates continuous blooming.
If flowering slows after the first flush, cut the plant back by half and apply fertilizer to encourage a second wave of bloom.
Pests and Diseases
Sweet Peas are relatively pest-resistant, though not immune. Common problems include:
- Powdery mildew and rust – Prevent with good air circulation and soil-level watering.
- Slugs and snails – Use barriers such as copper tape, crushed eggshells, or gravel.
- Aphids – Can be controlled with insecticidal soap or a blast of water.
- Root rot (Pythium) – Avoid poorly draining soils.
Maintain hygiene around plants, remove affected foliage, and avoid overcrowding to minimize issues.
Propagation of Lathyrus odoratus ‘White Frills’
Sweet Peas are propagated exclusively by seed. Sow in situ in early spring (Zones 7 and below) or in fall (Zones 8–10). Seeds can also be started under cover in pots or trays. Avoid disturbing the roots when transplanting.
Toxicity Warning
It’s important to note that Lathyrus odoratus is toxic if ingested. Sweet Pea seeds contain β-aminopropionitrile, which may cause mild gastrointestinal distress and, in large quantities, neurological symptoms. Keep seeds and plants away from pets and children.
In the Garden
‘White Frills’ brings elegance, scent, and vertical structure to the garden. Use it to soften fences, arches, or obelisks, or grow it in containers with bamboo stakes. Its clean, ruffled blooms pair beautifully with soft pastels or act as a cooling contrast to bold summer colors. The scent alone makes it worth growing.
Butterflies and bees love it, while deer generally leave it alone — a welcome trait in deer-prone areas.
Final Thoughts
Lathyrus odoratus ‘White Frills’ is not just one of the best white Sweet Peas, it’s one of the most rewarding annual vines you can grow. With its captivating fragrance, elegant blooms, and ease of care, it’s equally at home in a cutting garden, formal border, or rustic arbor.
Plant it where you’ll pass by often — your senses will thank you.
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