Plant name: Sweet Peas

Botanical name:  Lathyrus species and cultivars (shown, L. 'Matucana')

Suggested by: Josh Kirschenbaum of Territorial Seed Company

Virtues: Some varieties of this annual plant are climbing types, some are more compact, and others yet are trailing plants for hanging baskets.

Flower: Shades of white, pink, red, blue, and purple. Most are incredibly fragrant.

Foliage: Gray-green foliage that is somewhat similar to an edible pea.

Habit: Most are trailing types, to 4 or 5 feet.

Season: Early summer

Companions: Sweet peas make a great backdrop for just about any lower-growing annual or perennial.