Lathyrus odoratus 'Winter Sunshine Cream' – Vigorous winter-flowering cut flower sweet pea

Lathyrus odoratus 'Winter Sunshine Cream' is an exceptional selection within the scented sweet pea family, specially developed for professional greenhouse production of cut flowers in early spring. This variety combines vigorous early growth, long, sturdy stems, and an abundance of large, billowing flowers in a soft cream color. This makes this sweet pea ideal for growers who want to harvest high-quality flowers under short-day conditions, even in cool, low-light greenhouse conditions.

Winter flowering through short-day selection

Unlike the original Lathyrus odoratus, which naturally blooms in summer, 'Winter Sunshine Cream' has been specifically selected for winter flowering. Flowering is controlled by day length: while summer bloomers require 12 hours of daylight, spring varieties bloom at 11 hours, and winter selections like this one already flower at around 10 hours of daylight. This allows flowers to be produced as early as late autumn and early winter, giving growers a head start on the regular flowering season.

Impressive growth characteristics

This winter selection is distinguished by vigorous early growth that continues throughout the winter, when low light levels would normally severely restrict development. Each stem can bear 5–6 large flowers, developed on sturdy, wavy stems. The soft cream color gives bouquets an elegant and refined look, perfect for cut flowers, flower arrangements, and luxurious spring flower arrangements.

'Winter Sunshine Cream' has different growth characteristics than regular sweet pea varieties and therefore requires specific cultivation methods, including supporting the stems and providing sufficient space for optimal flower development. Regularly picked flowers also encourage new blooms and significantly extend the harvest period.

Cultivation and care

For optimal germination, it's important to soak the 'Winter Sunshine Cream' seeds in lukewarm water beforehand. Depending on the desired harvest time, sowing can take place at different times:

• Sow in mid-September for early spring production

• May sowing for autumn flowers

This sweet pea variety is more vigorous than many other winter selections and grows well in cool greenhouses in low light, making it ideal for professional cut flower production in challenging conditions.

Application and benefits

'Winter Sunshine Cream' is perfect for:

• Professional cut flower cultivation in greenhouses during winter and early spring

• Luxurious spring bouquets and flower arrangements

• Home gardeners who want to enjoy fragrant flowers early in the season

• Arrangements with soft, elegant pastel colours

The cream colour adds a subtle, refined touch that combines beautifully with other light shades such as white, soft pink and lavender, and also attracts bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity.

Why choose Lathyrus odoratus 'Winter Sunshine Cream'?

• Winter flowering under short-day conditions

• Vigorous early growth under low light levels

• Long stems with 5–6 large flowers per stem

• Soft cream flowers of high quality

• Ideal for cut flowers and professional use

• Flexible sowing schedule for autumn and winter production

With its vigorous growth, reliable winter flowering, and elegant flowers, Lathyrus odoratus 'Winter Sunshine Cream' is an excellent choice for growers who want to harvest fragrant, high-quality sweet pea flowers early in the season.