What Are the Different Types of Pea Plant

Pea plants are a popular choice among gardeners due to their ease of cultivation and delicious, nutritious pods. There are several different types of pea plants, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. In this article, we will explore some of the most common types of pea plants and discuss their distinctive features.

1. Garden Peas (Pisum sativum)

Garden peas, also known as English peas or shelling peas, are the most well-known type of pea plant. These peas are typically harvested when the pods are full and plump, but the peas inside are still tender. Garden peas have a sweet flavor and are commonly used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, soups, and stews.

One popular variety of garden pea is the ‘Green Arrow’ pea. This variety produces long, straight pods filled with sweet peas. Another notable variety is the ‘Wando’ pea, which is known for its early maturity and high yield.

2. Snow Peas (Pisum sativum var. saccharatum)

Snow peas are another type of edible-podded pea plant. Unlike garden peas, snow peas are harvested when the pods are flat and before the peas inside fully develop. The entire pod is edible and has a crisp texture and sweet flavor.

One well-known snow pea variety is the ‘Oregon Sugar Pod II.’ This variety produces large, stringless pods that are perfect for stir-frying or eating raw in salads. Another popular variety is the ‘Golden Sweet’ snow pea, which has yellow pods and a slightly sweeter taste compared to other varieties.

3. Snap Peas (Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon)

Snap peas, also known as sugar snap peas, are a cross between garden peas and snow peas. They have plump, crisp pods that can be eaten whole, just like snow peas. However, snap peas also contain fully developed peas inside the pods, similar to garden peas.

One popular snap pea variety is the ‘Sugar Ann’ snap pea. This variety is known for its early maturity and excellent flavor. Another notable variety is the ‘Cascadia’ snap pea, which produces high yields of sweet, crunchy pods.

4. Yellow Peas (Pisum sativum var. arvense)

Yellow peas, also known as field peas or dry peas, are a type of pea plant that is primarily grown for drying and use in soups, stews, and casseroles. These peas have a mild flavor and a firm texture when cooked.

One well-known variety of yellow pea is the ‘Dun’ pea. This variety is often used in traditional split pea soup recipes due to its creamy texture and rich flavor. Another popular variety is the ‘Austrian Winter’ pea, which is known for its cold tolerance and high protein content.

5. Black-Eyed Peas (Vigna unguiculata)

Black-eyed peas are not technically a type of pea plant but are often included in discussions about peas due to their similar appearance and culinary uses. These legumes have a characteristic black spot on their cream-colored skin and are commonly used in Southern cuisine.

One popular variety of black-eyed pea is the ‘California Blackeye #5.’ This variety produces large, creamy peas with a mild flavor. Another notable variety is the ‘Pinkeye Purple Hull’ black-eyed pea, which has purple pods and a slightly nutty taste.

Conclusion

Pea plants come in various types, each with its own distinct characteristics and uses. From garden peas to snow peas, snap peas to yellow peas, and even black-eyed peas, there is a type of pea plant for every taste and culinary preference. Whether you enjoy the sweet, tender pods of garden peas or prefer the crisp, edible pods of snow peas, incorporating peas into your diet is a delicious and nutritious choice. So, why not try growing different types of pea plants in your garden and enjoy the bountiful harvest of these versatile legumes?