Sweet Pea 'Rosay'

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Lathyrus odoratus
• Classification: Grandiflora
• Petal Pattern: Solid / Self
• Color Profile: Pink
• Fragrance: Strong
• Breeder: Unwins
• Year Introduced: 2012
• Flowering Type: Summer

Overview

'Rosay' is a beautiful Grandiflora sweet pea offering classic, brightly colored pink blooms. Because it belongs to the traditional Grandiflora classification, it is highly valued for its intense, old-fashioned fragrance. While its blossoms feature a slightly simpler, more hooded form compared to the heavily ruffled petals of modern Spencer types, its captivating scent and clear pink coloration make it a timeless addition to the garden.

Growth Habit

Following the typical growth pattern of summer-flowering sweet peas, this variety is a tall, highly vigorous climbing vine. As the plant stretches upward, it actively utilizes its tendrils to grip surrounding structures, making a sturdy vertical support system—such as a tall trellis, netting, or garden obelisk—absolutely essential for its development.

Cultivation Notes

As a summer-blooming cultivar, 'Rosay' depends on the extended daylight hours of late spring and summer to trigger its flowering cycle. To encourage a sturdier, bushier plant with robust lateral branches, it is best practice to pinch out the central growing tip when the young seedlings reach a few inches tall. It performs best in deeply prepared, fertile soil. Once the plant begins to flower, frequent harvesting is mandatory; allowing the blossoms to fade and develop seed pods will signal the vine to prematurely halt its blooming.

Historical Notes

This variety was bred and introduced by the renowned British seed company Unwins. It first appeared in their Autumn 2011 catalogue before being officially released for the 2012 growing season. It stands as an excellent example of modern breeders continuing to cultivate and release new Grandiflora types to satisfy the enduring public demand for sweet peas with an authentic, heirloom-quality perfume.

In the Garden

Grown for: Exceptional old-fashioned fragrance, supplying classic pink blooms for highly scented cut flower arrangements, and adding a romantic, traditional aesthetic to garden borders.

Companion Planting

The clear pink hue of 'Rosay' makes it incredibly versatile for both garden design and vase arrangements. Plant it alongside deep, moody purples and dark maroons (such as 'Black Knight' or 'Midnight') for a striking, high-contrast visual display, or weave it among pale creams and lavenders (like 'Mrs. Collier' or 'Jilly') to maintain a soft, harmonious pastel palette.