Pea Tree
Caragana brevispinafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. B7C2 — Caragana brevispina
Caragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispinaCaragana brevispina
IOverview
Overview
The Pea Tree (Caragana brevispina) is a deciduous shrub native to Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and the West Himalaya. It thrives in full sun and prefers dry to moist conditions with light or medium soil types. This hardy plant can grow up to 2.5 meters tall and is known for its edible leaves and seeds, making it a valuable resource in its native range. One distinctive feature of this pea tree is its ability to adapt to various soil conditions, enhancing its resilience in different environments.
Quick answers
What is Pea Tree?
The Pea Tree (Caragana brevispina) is a deciduous shrub native to Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and the West Himalaya. It thrives in full sun and prefers dry to moist conditions with light or medium soil types. This hardy plant can grow up to 2.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Pea Tree (Caragana brevispina) thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils that are light or medium in texture. It is adaptable to both dry and moist conditions but generally performs best with moderate watering. The plant is hardy from zones 4-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. To propagate, use seeds directly sown in the ground after danger of frost has passed. Pea Tree can grow up to 2.5 meters tall and is known for its edible leaves and seeds, which are safe for consumption.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
4-9
Mature size
2.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Pea Tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Pea Tree to observe its growth and adaptability.
- 1
What you'll need
Pea Tree seeds, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late autumn when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that's light (sandy) or medium. Ensure full sun exposure.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep, spacing them about 30 cm apart in rows 60 cm apart. Transplant seedlings if needed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the planted seeds regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Monitor for any signs of pests or diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells, and mulch around the base to retain moisture. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the Pea Tree in late winter to remove dead branches and encourage new growth. Harvest leaves and seeds as needed for culinary use.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leaves and seeds of the Pea Tree (Caragana brevispina) are edible. The leaves can be eaten fresh or cooked, while the seeds are typically roasted before consumption. Both parts are often used in local cuisine but should be prepared carefully to ensure safety. Skip details on specific recipes as they were not provided.
Other uses:HedgerowErosion controlLumberNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)AfghanistanNepalPakistan
Broader regions
native:Tadzhikistan, West Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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