About
An early-maturing, compact pea to about 60cm tall producing pods containing up to eight peas; suitable for eating fresh or freezing.
About the genus
A very small genus of annual, flowering plants from legume family. Native to SW Asia and NE Africa, species P. sativum is widely cultivated for food. Hollow. Climbing or trailing stems bear compound leaves and tendrils. Flowers are butterfly-shaped, 1-3 per stalk. The fruit is a pod
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationPeas grow best in rich, well-drained, neutral or alkaline soils in a sunny position. Dwarf cultivars can be supported with pea sticks or pea netting
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistancePea moth, pea and bean weevil, birds and mice
Disease resistanceMaybe susceptible to powdery mildews