Arabian pea
Bituminaria bituminosa · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant arabian pea: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (April-June)
- Adult size
- 24-32 inches tall, 20-28 inches wide
- Growth
- Fast to moderate
- Hardiness
- Moderate, down to -8 to -10 °C
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin and North Africa region
- Soil type
- Well-drained, chalky, tolerates poor soils
Care
Light exposure
Bituminaria bituminosa demands full sun exposure to bloom generously. It tolerates partial shade but flowering will be less abundant. Choose a well-ventilated location, as it dislikes stagnant moisture.
Watering
Water regularly during spring and summer growth, especially during dry spells. Once established, the plant tolerates drought well and requires little watering. Avoid excess water in winter, which promotes root rot.
Soil preparation
Plant in well-drained, light substrate, even chalky or poor soil. Lightly enrich the soil with compost at planting. This Mediterranean plant adapts to difficult terrain and isn't bothered by infertile soils.
Fertilizing
A moderate application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Being a nitrogen-fixing legume, Bituminaria bituminosa is undemanding. Avoid excessive nitrogen applications, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and stimulate branching. Remove dead or damaged stems in late winter. This plant tolerates moderate pruning but doesn't strictly require it.
Diseases and pests
Bituminaria bituminosa is generally robust. Watch for powdery mildew in humid climates and root rot in cases of persistent excess moisture. Pests are rare on this well-established Mediterranean plant.
Did you know?
Bituminaria bituminosa gets its evocative name from the "bitumen"-like, sticky odorous substance (containing sulfur derivatives) that its leaves release when crushed. This characteristic smell, noticeable in warm and humid weather, is a natural protective mechanism for the plant and was already known to Renaissance botanists.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese wisteriaWisteria sinensis
- Common broomCytisus scoparius
- Black locustRobinia pseudoacacia
- Common PeaLathyrus oleraceus
- Honey locustGleditsia triacanthos
- Hairy greenweedGenista pilosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.