Henry Eckford (plant breeder)

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For the United States naval architect, see Henry Eckford.

Henry Eckford (1823-1905) was the most famous breeder of sweet peas, transforming the plant from a minor horticultural subject into the queen of annuals. In 1888 He moved to the village of Wem in Shropshire. It was in Wem that he perfected the breeding of his Grandiflora sweet peas, which in size of bloom and general performance were a great improvement over previous varieties.

In honour of Henry Eckford the town of Wem (specifically the Eckford Sweet Pea Society of Wem) holds each year in July a sweet pea show. In this there is a section for old fashioned varieties, always including many bred by Henry Eckford.

Henry Eckford was a Fellow of the Royal Horticultural Society, and was awarded the Society's highest award, the Victoria Medal of Honour.