Pisum

Pisum is a genus in the family Fabaceae, native to the Mediterranean region. It includes the garden pea (Pisum sativum) and the wild pea (Pisum fulvum).

Description

The Pisum genus is characterized by its climbing habit, with tendrils that coil around any available support. The leaves are pinnate with paired leaflets and a terminal tendril. The flowers are large and showy, typically white, pink or purple. The fruit is a legume, containing several peas.

Species

There are two recognized species in the Pisum genus:

• Pisum sativum – the garden pea, which has been cultivated for thousands of years for its edible seeds. It has many varieties, including the green pea, the snow pea, and the sugar snap pea.
• Pisum fulvum – the wild pea, native to the eastern Mediterranean region. It is less commonly cultivated, but is used in breeding programs for its resistance to certain diseases.

Cultivation and uses

Pisum sativum is widely cultivated for its edible seeds, which are high in protein and fiber. It is also used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility, and as a forage crop for livestock. Pisum fulvum is less commonly cultivated, but is used in breeding programs for its resistance to certain diseases.

See also

• List of Pisum species
• Pea
• Legume
• Fabaceae

References

Pisum Resources
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