Sweet Pea Flower Meanings: Conveying Your Feelings

Sweet peas are one of the quintessential spring flowers. They are known for their sweet fragrance and delicate, fluttering petals. They come in a wide variety of colors, from vibrant fluorescent shades to soft, gentle pastels. In this article, we'll delve into the flower meanings and history of sweet peas. We hope it helps you when choosing a gift!

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Basic Information about Sweet Peas

Sweet peas are legumes native to the island of Sicily, Italy. They are characterized by their climbing vines and sweet fragrance when they bloom. They can sometimes grow up to 2 meters tall. Known as a representative spring flower, sweet peas are typically spring-blooming varieties, though some varieties bloom in summer or autumn. With their rich color variations, you're sure to see them in flower shops during spring.

What are the flower meanings of sweet peas?

The flower meanings of sweet peas are "departure," "farewell," "faint joy," and "gentle memories." All of these are wonderful meanings, and since sweet peas are available from January to April, they are known as popular gifts for graduations and farewell parties. The meaning "departure" is especially perfect for graduation ceremonies. If you have to say goodbye to a beloved senior or teacher, give them sweet peas to cheer them on for their new journey.

The flower meaning of pink sweet peas

The flower meanings of pink sweet peas are "joy of love," "elegance," and "delicacy." These positive meanings make them suitable for any occasion. Especially with the meaning "joy of love," it's a great idea to give a bouquet of spring flowers, including pink sweet peas, as a birthday gift for your loved one! The pink color of sweet peas is vibrant and has a sweet charm, making them very popular with women.

The flower meaning of yellow sweet peas

The flower meanings of yellow sweet peas are "discretion" and "judgment." These intellectual meanings are derived from the warning effect associated with the color yellow. Additionally, yellow can evoke positive feelings such as energy and hope, making it a good choice for celebratory occasions. Yellow sweet peas have a soft, gentle hue, making them lovely even when simply bundled together and displayed.

The flower meaning of white sweet peas

The flower meaning of white sweet peas is "faint joy." This modest meaning is attributed to the pure white color, untouched by other hues. The soft, white petals give a very delicate impression, almost like lace curtains. It's lovely to display a generous bunch of only white sweet peas in your room. Alternatively, combine them with other spring flowers like ranunculus and tulips, and some greenery, to gift to someone celebrating a spring birthday or wedding anniversary.

The flower meaning of purple sweet peas

The flower meaning of purple sweet peas is "eternal joy." Purple has historically been known as a color of elegance and mystery, which is how its flower meaning was derived. It is also said that the dignified appearance of purple sweet peas, reminiscent of an older woman, was the origin of its flower meaning. It is recommended to arrange them with other spring flowers such as pansies and ranunculus. Be sure to enjoy their fragrance as well.

The flower meaning of red sweet peas

The flower meanings of red sweet peas are "departure" and "farewell." Both evoke scenes of parting. These meanings are said to come from the way sweet pea petals flutter, resembling butterflies taking flight. Entrust your feelings to the flower meaning and give a bouquet for graduation as a wonderful gesture. The gentle fragrance will also waft, making it a gift that can be appreciated with all five senses. For new beginnings, offer sweet pea flowers.

The History of Sweet Peas

The history of sweet peas begins with their discovery in the late 17th century (around 1695) by a Sicilian monk named Francis Cupani. He sent seeds to England, initiating their history as an ornamental plant.

Improvements then progressed in England, and records indicate that a different species, the 'white sweet pea,' was born in 1718.

In the late 19th century, extensive breeding was carried out by Henry Eckford, known as the 'Father of Sweet Peas,' leading to the creation of varieties with diverse colors and fragrances.

Alexandra, the wife of King Edward VII of England at the time, loved sweet peas and used them lavishly for celebratory occasions. As a result, sweet peas are loved by the British people to this day as 'the flower symbolizing the Edwardian era.'
(Reference: Thompson & Morgan, "Old Fashioned Sweet Peas")
(Reference: Flower Database, "Sweet pea")

The History of Sweet Peas in Japan

What is the history of sweet peas in Japan? Sweet peas have Japanese names, 'Jakō-endō' (Musk Pea) and 'Kaori-endō' (Fragrant Pea), due to their pleasant scent.

They arrived in Japan during the late Edo period to early Meiji era. Initially, they were enjoyed for ornamental purposes by a select few, but serious cultivation (commercial cultivation) for sale in flower shops began in the Taishō era.

After that, they became established as a spring flower in Japan, but a historical turning point was the massive hit of Seiko Matsuda's famous song "Akai Sweet Pea" in 1982. In fact, at that time, there were no vibrant 'red' sweet peas. However, due to the song's influence, requests to "display red sweet peas" flooded in! To meet this demand, growers repeatedly bred new varieties, and there's an anecdote that they finally succeeded in creating vibrant red sweet peas.

Today, they are loved by many as a quintessential spring flower and a symbol of 'departure.'
(Reference: Aoyama Flower Market "Production Area Report: JA Hare no Kuni Okayama, Chaco Farm")
(Reference: Pocket Marche (Producer Interview: Takeshi Nakagawa))

Is January 21st Sweet Pea Day?

January 21st is designated as "Sweet Pea Day," and on this day, many sweet peas line the shelves of flower shops. The "Japan Sweet Pea Association," composed of Japanese garden centers and growers, established this day. The reason why Sweet Pea Day is January 21st is related to the release date of Seiko Matsuda's "Akai Sweet Pea," which was January 21st. It's undeniable that this song helped sweet peas gain popularity in Japan. Therefore, the day was set to coincide with the song's release date.

Perfect for New Beginnings! Sweet Pea Flower Gifts

Sweet peas are highly recommended as a gift for farewell occasions, conveying the flower meaning "departure." Here are some recommended flower arrangements featuring sweet peas. They are flower gifts combined with other spring flowers, so please consider giving them to your loved ones. All are seasonal and only available in spring. Please consider them early!

Sweet Pea Bouquet for Graduation Ceremonies

For graduation ceremonies, a bouquet generously featuring sweet peas is recommended. When taking commemorative photos with everyone, bouquets are more photogenic than flower arrangements. Additionally, their portability is a significant advantage. Pink or yellow are recommended colors, suitable for celebratory occasions. It's also a good idea to combine sweet peas with other flowers like tulips and ranunculus. If you're unsure if the recipient has a vase, it's best to present the bouquet along with one. Convey your feelings of "departure" and "gentle memories" with sweet peas to your beloved seniors and teachers.

Recommended Sweet Pea Bouquets

Seasonal Bouquet with Sweet Peas and Tulips "Pale Lilac"

¥8,250-

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Enjoy Spring Flowers! Sweet Pea Flower Arrangement

Sweet pea flower gifts are highly recommended not only as presents but also as home decor. Especially flower arrangements combining sweet peas with other spring flowers and greenery are unique interior decorations that invite spring into your room. The soft fragrance of the flowers will fill your room, bringing happiness. When displaying them, place them in a spot away from direct sunlight and water them regularly. With proper care, they can be enjoyed for about a week.

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Spring Flower Arrangement S size Yellow & Green

¥8,250-

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Summary

The flower meanings of sweet peas are "departure," "farewell," "faint joy," and "gentle memories." These flowers are only available in spring and are characterized by their fragrance and delicate, fluttering petals. With meanings perfect for farewells, they are especially recommended as gifts for graduation ceremonies and farewell parties. They also make lovely birthday or wedding anniversary presents when combined with other spring flowers. For spring occasions, please consider gifting sweet pea flowers.

◆Revision History
December 11, 2025: Some years corrected. References and sources added.