Snow pea
Pisum sativum macrocarpumfam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 37CD — Pisum sativum macrocarpum
Pisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpumPisum sativum macrocarpum
IOverview
Overview
Snow pea (Pisum sativum macrocarpum) is a cultivar of the common pea and belongs to the Fabaceae family. Native to regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Egypt, France, and parts of Europe, this plant is known for its edible pods that are harvested when immature. The snow pea thrives in full sun with moist soil, preferring light (sandy) or medium textures. It has a hardiness range of zones 3-9 and grows to a height of about 2 meters. Its distinctive features include tender, edible seedpods and leaves that can also be consumed, making it both ornamental and edible in the garden.
Quick answers
What is Snow pea?
Snow pea (Pisum sativum macrocarpum) is a cultivar of the common pea and belongs to the Fabaceae family. Native to regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Egypt, France, and parts of Europe, this plant is known for its edible pods that are harvested when immature.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Snow pea thrives in full sun and requires moist but well-draining soil that is light (sandy) to medium in texture. It is hardy in zones 3-9 and grows up to 2 meters tall as an annual. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist and provide support for the climbing plants. Harvest the edible seedpods when they are young and tender for the most delicious results.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
3-9
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
2.0 m tall
- Seed viability
- 3-5 years
For first-time growers
How to grow Snow pea for the first time
8steps
Start with simple and straightforward steps to grow Snow peas, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a garden plot or large container, compost, a trellis or stake.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the soil is workable and temperatures are above 40°F (5°C).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining, light, and rich with compost. Containers should be at least 12 inches deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart in rows spaced about 18 inches apart. Alternatively, plant seedlings when they are 4-6 weeks old.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide a trellis for support as vines grow. Water deeply once or twice per week, depending on rainfall.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any yellowing leaves and remove spent flowers to encourage more pods. Harvest when pods are plump but still tender.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, not providing support for vines, neglecting to prune, planting too late in the season.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:SeedpodLeavesSeed
Edible uses: Snow pea pods are typically eaten raw or lightly cooked to preserve their crisp texture and mild flavor. The leaves can be added fresh to salads or stir-fries. Pods are often steamed briefly or blanched before use in dishes. Skip the lengthy cooking process to maintain the pod's snap and freshness.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe11 regions
native (11)AlbaniaBulgariaCyprusFranceGreeceItalyPortugalRomaniaRussiaSpainUkraine
Asia6 regions
native (6)AfghanistanIranIraqPalestineTurkeyTurkmenistan
Africa5 regions
native (5)AlgeriaEgyptLibyaMoroccoTunisia
Broader regions
native:Lebanon-Syria, Transcaucasus, Turkey-in-Europe, Yugoslavia
VIIIGarden companions
1 pair
Garden companions
1 pairPlant near these
These plants help — by repelling pests, fixing nitrogen, attracting pollinators, or sharing space well.
XSee 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
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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