One of the first Sweet Peas to be introduced into Britain just before the year 1700, by a Sicilian monk, Franciscus Cupani. This variety has the original enthralling Sweet Pea fragrance which is captivating in every way. A wonderful cut flower and garden plant with masses of bicoloured, purple and deep blue blooms.

Please note flower size is slightly smaller than modern day hybrids.

Sow October indoors, or March to April outdoors.

Germinate at 20-30C (68-86F) on the surface of a free draining, damp seed compost, 3 seeds per 7.5cm (3in) pot. Apply a layer of compost 1cm (½in) deep. Place in a propagator or seal container in a polythene bag until after germination which takes 10-21 days. Spring sowings can be sown outdoors, 2.5cm (1 in) deep in drills 7.5cm (3in) apart.

Overwinter October sown plants in cooler conditions such as a coldframe before planting out in spring when the ground has warmed, 23-30cm (9-12in) apart.

Pinch out the growing point once the first or second pair of leaves has opened. Water freely during dry weather and apply well rotted manure occasionally. Regular removal of spent flowers will encourage further blooms.

Harmful if eaten