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Garden Pea

Pisum sativum

Pisum sativum Pisum sativum
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Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Fabales
Family:
Fabaceae (Pea)
Also in this family:
Alpine Milk-vetch, Alsike Clover, Birdsfoot, Birdsfoot Clover, Bird's-foot Trefoil, Bithynian Vetch, Bitter Vetch, Black Broom, Black Medick, Bladder Senna, Broad Bean, Broad-leaved Everlasting Pea, Bur Medick, Burrowing Clover, Bush Vetch, Clustered Clover, Common Broom, Common Gorse, Common Laburnum, Common Restharrow, Common Vetch, Crimson Clover, Crown Vetch, Dragon's Teeth, Dwarf Gorse, Dyer's Greenweed, False Acacia, Fine-leaved Vetch, Fodder Vetch, Garden Lupin, Goat's Rue, Grass Vetchling, Greater Bird's-foot Trefoil, Hairy Bird's-foot Trefoil, Hairy Greenweed, Hairy Tare, Hairy Vetchling, Hairy-fruited Broom, Haresfoot Clover, Hop Trefoil, Horseshoe Vetch, Hungarian Vetch, Kidney Vetch, Knotted Clover, Large Trefoil, Lesser Trefoil, Lucerne, Marsh Pea, Meadow Vetchling, Narrow-leaved Bird's-foot Trefoil, Narrow-leaved Everlasting Pea, Narrow-leaved Vetch, Nootka Lupin, Norfolk Everlasting Pea, Orange Birdsfoot, Petty Whin, Purple Milk-vetch, Purple Oxytropis, Red Clover, Reversed Clover, Ribbed Melilot, Rough Clover, Russell Lupin, Sainfoin, Scorpion Senna, Scottish Laburnum, Sea Clover, Sea Pea, Sickle Medick, Slender Bird's-foot Trefoil, Slender Tare, Slender Trefoil, Small Melilot, Small Restharrow, Smooth Tare, Spanish Broom, Spanish Gorse, Spiny Restharrow, Spotted Medick, Spring Vetch, Strawberry Clover, Suffocated Clover, Sulphur Clover, Tall Melilot, Toothed Medick, Tree Lupin, Tuberous Pea, Tufted Vetch, Twin-headed Clover, Two-flowered Everlasting Pea, Upright Clover, Upright Vetch, Western Clover, Western Gorse, White Broom, White Clover, White Lupin, White Melilot, Wild Liquorice, Wood Vetch, Yellow Oxytropis, Yellow Vetch, Yellow Vetchling, Zigzag Clover
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Annual
Maximum Size:
2 metres tall
Habitats:
Farmland, gardens, wasteland.

Flower:
✿
Variable in colour, 5 petals
 
The Garden Pea produces delicate, butterfly-shaped flowers that are usually white, though some cultivated varieties can be pink or purple. Each flower has the typical pea-flower structure, consisting of a broad upper "standard" petal, two lateral "wing" petals, and a lower "keel" enclosing the reproductive organs. Flowering typically occurs in late spring to early summer. The blooms are self-pollinating but are also visited by bees, which help increase pod yields in cultivated settings.
Fruit:
The fruit is the well-known pea pod—a smooth, green, elongated capsule that splits along two seams when mature. Inside, it contains multiple round, green seeds (peas), which are edible and highly nutritious. Depending on the variety, pods may be harvested immature (as mangetout or sugar snaps) or mature (for shelling peas). Wild forms and heritage cultivars often differ in pod texture and sweetness compared to modern commercial types.
Leaves:
Garden Pea leaves are pinnate with 1 to 3 pairs of oval leaflets and a terminal tendril, which helps the climbing stems grip onto supports. The stipules at the base of each leaf are large and leaf-like, often as big as the leaflets themselves. The foliage is a light to mid-green and may be slightly waxy. Peas are annual climbing or scrambling plants and will reach for any nearby structure for support.
Fragrance:
The flowers of Pisum sativum have a very faint, slightly sweet fragrance, though it is not especially noticeable. Unlike Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus), which is grown for its strong perfume, the Garden Pea has been bred more for food production than floral scent. The young foliage and pods have a fresh, green aroma when crushed, typical of legume crops.
Other Names:
Chinese Pea, Chinese Pea Pod, Chinese Snow Pea, Common Pea, Dry Pea, Edible Pod Pea, Edible-podded Pea, English Pea, Field Pea, Garden Pea, Green Pea, Pea, Podded Pea, Snow Pea, Sugar Snap Pea.
Frequency (UK):
Occasionally seen  

Other Information

Summary

Pisum sativum, also known as the garden pea or English pea, is an annual or short-lived perennial plant in the family Fabaceae. It is one of the oldest cultivated plants, and is grown for its small, edible seeds which are typically eaten as a vegetable. The seeds are typically green, but can also be yellow, purple, or black. The plant has pinnate leaves and small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring or summer. Peas are a good source of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals. They are often consumed fresh, canned or frozen, and used in a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, and casseroles. Peas are also used to make pea flour and pea protein, which can be used in food products such as protein bars and vegan meat alternatives.

Blog

Garden pea, scientifically known as Pisum sativum, is a popular vegetable plant that belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae. It is a cool-season crop and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world, especially in temperate regions.

The garden pea plant is an annual vine that grows up to 2 meters in height. It has compound leaves with two to three pairs of leaflets, and each leaflet is oval-shaped and about 1-4 cm long. The plant produces flowers that are white or pinkish, and the fruit of the plant is a pod that contains the pea seeds.

Peas have been cultivated for thousands of years and are believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region. They were highly valued by ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans, who considered them a delicacy. Peas were also popular in medieval Europe and were often served at royal banquets.

Peas are not only delicious but also highly nutritious. They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, potassium, and phosphorus. Peas are also rich in fiber and protein, making them a great addition to any healthy diet.

There are many different varieties of garden peas, each with its unique characteristics. Some common varieties include sugar snap peas, snow peas, and English peas. Sugar snap peas are a cross between snow peas and English peas and are known for their sweet flavor and crisp texture. Snow peas are flat and have a delicate flavor, while English peas are round and have a slightly sweeter taste.

Garden peas are relatively easy to grow and can be planted in the early spring or fall. They prefer cool temperatures and well-drained soil. Garden peas can be planted directly in the ground or started indoors and transplanted outside once the weather warms up.

When planting garden peas, it's essential to provide them with support such as trellises or stakes as they grow. This helps prevent the plants from falling over and also makes it easier to harvest the peas. Peas should be harvested when the pods are full and firm, but before the peas inside become too large and starchy.

Garden peas are not only delicious and nutritious, but they also have many health benefits. One of the main health benefits of peas is their high fiber content. Fiber is essential for healthy digestion and can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Peas are also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's disease.

In addition, peas are a good source of plant-based protein, making them an excellent alternative to meat for vegetarians and vegans. Plant-based protein sources are also easier on the digestive system and can help reduce the risk of certain health problems such as colon cancer and heart disease.

When cooking with garden peas, there are many different ways to prepare them. They can be steamed, boiled, roasted, or even stir-fried. Fresh garden peas can be used in salads, soups, stews, and casseroles. They can also be mashed and used as a dip or spread.

Frozen peas are also a convenient and delicious option for those who don't have access to fresh garden peas. Frozen peas are often picked and frozen at the peak of freshness, so they can be just as nutritious as fresh peas. They can be added to a variety of dishes, such as pasta, risotto, and fried rice.

In addition to being a delicious and nutritious vegetable, garden peas also have some interesting cultural and historical significance.

For example, in some cultures, peas are considered a symbol of fertility and good luck. In ancient Rome, it was believed that eating peas could improve a person's vision, and in medieval Europe, peas were often used as a remedy for various ailments such as indigestion and fever.

Peas have also played a significant role in scientific research. In the mid-1800s, the Austrian monk Gregor Mendel conducted experiments on pea plants and discovered the principles of genetic inheritance. Mendel's work with pea plants paved the way for modern genetics and has had a significant impact on the fields of biology and agriculture.

Furthermore, garden peas have also been used in art and literature. The French painter Jean-Francois Millet is known for his painting "The Gleaners," which depicts three women picking peas in a field. In the popular children's book "The Tale of Peter Rabbit," the titular character is famously caught stealing vegetables from Mr. McGregor's garden, including a row of garden peas.

In conclusion, garden peas are not only a delicious and nutritious vegetable, but they also have cultural, historical, and scientific significance. From their use in traditional medicine to their role in modern genetic research, peas have had a lasting impact on human culture and society. So the next time you enjoy a bowl of fresh garden peas, remember their rich history and the many ways they have contributed to the world we live in today.

25 Facts about Garden Peas

  1. Garden peas are also known as English peas or common peas.
  2. They are a cool-season crop and prefer temperatures between 55-70°F.
  3. Peas are a legume, which means they have the ability to fix nitrogen from the air into the soil.
  4. The garden pea plant is an annual vine that can grow up to 2 meters in height.
  5. Peas have been cultivated for over 5000 years and are believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region.
  6. Peas were considered a delicacy by ancient Greeks and Romans.
  7. Garden peas come in three main types: snap peas, snow peas, and shelling peas.
  8. Snap peas have a thick, edible pod and are eaten whole.
  9. Snow peas have a flat, edible pod and are commonly used in stir-fries and salads.
  10. Shelling peas have a tough, inedible pod and are shelled before eating.
  11. Peas are a good source of fiber, protein, vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like iron, potassium, and phosphorus.
  12. They are low in calories and fat, making them a great addition to any healthy diet.
  13. Peas are an excellent source of antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
  14. The seeds of the garden pea plant have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
  15. Peas are relatively easy to grow and can be planted in the early spring or fall.
  16. They prefer well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.
  17. Peas should be trellised or supported as they grow to prevent the plants from falling over.
  18. Fresh garden peas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.
  19. Frozen peas are a convenient and nutritious alternative to fresh peas.
  20. Peas are commonly used in many cuisines around the world, including Indian, Mediterranean, and Asian.
  21. In ancient Rome, it was believed that eating peas could improve a person's vision.
  22. Garden peas were a staple food during World War I and II due to their high nutritional value.
  23. Peas have been the subject of scientific research for centuries, particularly in the field of genetics.
  24. Peas are often used as a cover crop to improve soil health and fertility.
  25. Garden peas are an excellent addition to any vegetable garden and are easy to grow.

Garden pea, Pisum sativum, is a cool-season legume that has been cultivated for over 5000 years. They are a nutritious source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, and are available in three main types: snap peas, snow peas, and shelling peas. Peas are relatively easy to grow and can be trellised or supported as they grow. They have cultural, historical, and scientific significance and are commonly used in many cuisines around the world. Peas are a versatile and healthy vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Common Varieties of Garden Pea

Here are some common varieties of garden peas along with information about each one:

  1. Alaska: Alaska peas are an early-maturing variety with a sweet flavor and tender texture. They are a shelling pea and typically grow to about 2-3 feet tall.

  2. Little Marvel: Little Marvel peas are a dwarf variety that only grow to about 18 inches tall. They are a shelling pea with a sweet flavor and tender texture.

  3. Wando: Wando peas are a mid-season variety that produces high yields of plump, flavorful peas. They are a shelling pea and typically grow to about 3-4 feet tall.

  4. Sugar Snap: Sugar Snap peas are a popular variety of snap pea with a thick, edible pod and a sweet flavor. They are typically harvested when the pods are about 2-3 inches long.

  5. Oregon Sugar Pod II: Oregon Sugar Pod II peas are a popular variety of snow pea with a flat, edible pod and a sweet flavor. They are typically harvested when the pods are about 3-4 inches long.

  6. Green Arrow: Green Arrow peas are a mid-season variety of shelling pea with a sweet flavor and tender texture. They typically grow to about 2-3 feet tall.

  7. Lincoln: Lincoln peas are a popular variety of shelling pea with a sweet flavor and tender texture. They typically grow to about 3-4 feet tall and produce high yields.

  8. Maestro: Maestro peas are a mid-season variety of shelling pea with a sweet flavor and tender texture. They typically grow to about 2-3 feet tall and produce high yields.

  9. Progress No. 9: Progress No. 9 peas are a popular variety of shelling pea with a sweet flavor and tender texture. They typically grow to about 2-3 feet tall and produce high yields.

  10. Thomas Laxton: Thomas Laxton peas are a mid-season variety of shelling pea with a sweet flavor and tender texture. They typically grow to about 3-4 feet tall and produce high yields.

Each variety of garden pea has its own unique characteristics, such as flavor, texture, and growth habit. By choosing the right variety for your garden, you can ensure a successful harvest and delicious meals to come.

Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

Click to open an Interactive Map