When I first studied birth month flowers, I vaguely knew that the sweet pea flower meaning was associated with love and goodbyes. The symbolism of flowers is deep — and imperative in understanding most allusions in art and literature. The Sweet Pea is well-known as a term of endearment. The simple, pretty flower reminds me of innocent Victorian love.
History of Sweet Peas
The blooms are native to Sicily and southern Italy — discovered growing wildly by a Sicilian monk in the 1600s. Their sweet fragrance endeared him so, the monk sent seeds to botanical institutions around the world. This strain had a dark purple hood covering a dark blue flower.
In the 17th century, a Scottish nurseryman in the Royal Horticultural Society, Henry Eckford created sweet pea hybrids. His work earned him the Victoria Medal of Honor. The plant actually became one of the most popular flowers of the Victorian era.
Sweet Pea Characteristics
A climbing plant, Sweet Peas usually grow on supporting structures. Their vines grow in little spirals and the flowers bloom at the top of the vine. The shape of the flowers look like a butterfly with five delicate ruffled petals.
Stories & Myths
The flower’s name is derived from greek words meaning “pulse” and latin words meaning “fragrant”. It’s a bittersweet symbol for goodbyes after a lovely time. The poet, John Keats is sometimes credited with naming the flower, writing,
“Here are sweet peas, on tip-toe for a flight:
With wings of gentle flush o’er delicate white,
And taper fingers catching at all things,
To bind them all about with tiny rings. “
Simple and beautiful, the bloom is often a gift for brides. The Flower Glossary explains,
“Sweet Peas are traditionally used at weddings in France. Not only are they used to decorate the venue, but they are also given to the bride in vast quantities. Why?
Well, it is a French tradition that Sweet Peas of all colors are given to a bride to protect her innocence and to ward off evil. It was also believed that it was impossible to speak ill of someone when they were in the same room as a Sweet Pea. The purity and innocence of the flower would prevent them from speaking negatively. They were given to brides to protect them from spitefulness on their special day.”
Sweet Pea Flower Meaning
Because of its popularity during the Victorian era, it’s most associated with bliss and gratitude. For example, a sweet pea bouquet thanks someone for a good time. Variations on the flower’s color can adapt its meaning.
White sweet pea flowers symbolize innocence.
Pink blooms represent happiness and are often used for wedding bouquets.
Purple sweet pea flowers celebrate success.
Red flowers express courage and are a good gift to say you hope to see someone again.
Gardeners include these climbing plants as a symbol of peace, joy, and love. Their vines denote strength and some cultures believe that sweet pea flowers can deepen a person’s wisdom. It’s the birth flower for April and blooms in the springtime.
More about Flower Meanings
If you enjoyed this post, you should explore more of the birth month flowers. I spent a whole year studying them and creating sketches for each one. I post about them monthly on my Instagram account @verdera.me. Join me and other nature lovers there.
