Chinese Pea Shrub
Caragana sinicafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 903C — Caragana sinica
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IOverview
Overview
Chinese Pea Shrub, scientifically known as Caragana sinica and belonging to the Fabaceae family, is a hardy plant native to China's central and southeastern regions, including Manchuria. This deciduous shrub thrives in full sun and can tolerate various soil types, from light (sandy) to medium, though it prefers dry to moist conditions. It is known for its edible flowers, which are often used in culinary applications. Chinese Pea Shrub grows up to 1.5 meters tall and is hardy in zones 5-9. Its distinctive feature lies in the use of its blossoms as a food source, making it both ornamental and useful.
Quick answers
What is Chinese Pea Shrub?
Chinese Pea Shrub, scientifically known as Caragana sinica and belonging to the Fabaceae family, is a hardy plant native to China's central and southeastern regions, including Manchuria.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chinese Pea Shrub thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils that are light (sandy) or medium-textured. It is drought-tolerant but can also handle moist conditions. The plant grows to a height of 1.5 meters and is hardy in zones 5-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. Edible parts include the flowers, which are often used in culinary applications.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Chinese Pea Shrub for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting guide for Chinese Pea Shrub to enjoy its benefits without complex care.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a trowel, and some mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late autumn for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep, or plant young plants in the ground.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist until established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water sparingly once established. Prune lightly after flowering.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: The flowers of the Chinese Pea Shrub (Caragana sinica) are edible and can be consumed raw or used in various preparations. They are often picked when fully open and added to salads for a mild, sweet flavor. The flowers can also be dried and used as a tea.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixerFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native· 2 introduced
Asia3 regions
native (1)China
introduced (2)JapanSouth Korea
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
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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