Leguminosae, Fabaceae Pisum sativum L.
Source: Magness et al. 1971
Garden peas are a major vegetable crop in the U.S. and in all temperate
zone countries. Field peas grown for feed are also important. There are many
varieties, varying in height of plant, size, tenderness and sweetness of the
peas, season of maturity, and other properties. All garden peas grown
commercially are on vining type plants, generally 2 to 3 feet in length.
Seeds are enclosed in pods, from which they are removed by machine for commercial
processing or by hand for home use. Edible podded kinds are known, but these
are unimportant in the U.S. and rarely enter commerce. For commercial
processing, vines are cut and passed through threshers or "viners" which remove
the peas from vines and pods.
Production in U.S.: About 550,000 tons commercially for food. 200,000 tons field peas for feed.
Use: Processed canned and frozen, canned soup, dried split peas for soup.
Part of plant consumed: Seeds only for food. Vines from threshers for livestock feed.