Sweet Pea ‘Edd Fincham’

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Lathyrus odoratus
• Classification: Spencer
• Petal Pattern: Solid / Self
• Color Profile: Maroon
• Fragrance: Mild to moderate
• Breeder: Harrod
• Year Introduced: 1994
• Flowering Type: Long-day / summer flowering

Overview

Introduced in 1994 by the breeder Harrod, ‘Edd Fincham’ is a striking maroon sweet pea. Botanically, it belongs to the Spencer class, which is distinguished worldwide by its large, frilled blooms and extended stems. Its rich, dark coloring makes it an exceptional choice for dramatic garden displays and bold, contemporary floral arrangements.

Growth Habit

Like most Spencer cultivars, ‘Edd Fincham’ is vigorous and highly productive, producing abundant long stems ideal for cutting and exhibition use. It features the characteristic “open keel” typical of Spencer sweet peas, along with beautifully waved and ruffled standard and wing petals. As a summer-flowering Spencer, it generally requires 13–15 hours of daylight to initiate blooming.

Cultivation Notes

For best root development, sow seeds in deep pots or root trainers rather than shallow trays. Once seedlings have developed four or five leaves and are approximately 3–4 inches tall, pinch out the growing tips to encourage strong basal shoots and create sturdier, more vigorous vines.

Timing is especially important for this variety. Use our Custom Zip-Code Planting Tool to determine the ideal sowing week for your specific local climate.

Historical Notes

Bred by Harrod and introduced in 1994, ‘Edd Fincham’ continues the long-standing fascination with dark, velvety sweet peas. In the late 19th century, breeders such as Henry Eckford introduced some of the first famous deep maroon varieties, including the Grandiflora cultivars ‘Black Knight’ (1898) and ‘Othello’ (1899). Later Spencer introductions like ‘Edd Fincham’ allowed growers to enjoy these dramatic colors while benefiting from the vigorous stem length and large ruffled blooms demanded by modern floristry.

In the Garden

‘Edd Fincham’ is especially valued for:

• Exhibition growing and show-quality blooms
• Cut flower production and dramatic floral arrangements
• Adding deep, moody contrast to garden borders

Companion Planting Notes

Its dark, velvety maroon coloring pairs beautifully with pure white varieties such as ‘White Spencer’ or ‘White Supreme’ for sharp contrast. It also works exceptionally well alongside soft creams, blush tones, and pale blues to create a rich, antique-inspired palette.