One of the simple pleasures of summer in my garden is the dependable blooming of Lathyrus odoratus, the sweet pea Matucana. On the left is a seed packet I designed to share the Matucana seeds with friends and family members.
Everything about this plant, fabled to have been first cultivated by monks in Italy in 1699, is desirable. The plants volunteer if previous year's seeds are allowed to drop to the soil. Requiring no watering beyond the natural rainfall (granted, this is Seattle), they are hardier than most weeds. The color and the fragrance are exquisite. Blooming early and continuing through July, they are a source of pure summer delight.
Two weeks ago, while on a weekend excursion with friends, I found a small, cut glass pitcher at a garage sale. What could be more perfect for a bouquet of Matacanas? (Click on either image for a large view)
Jocelyn Curry 
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