Red pea
Lathyrus cicera · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant red pea: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, compound and pinnate
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (April to June)
- Flowers
- Small pink, red or bicolored flowers in clusters
- Hardiness
- Fairly hardy, tolerates temperate to cold temperatures
- Origin
- Mediterranean region and western Asia
Care
Sunlight
Position your chickpea vetchling in full sun to promote good flowering and vigorous growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but will prefer at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Soil
This plant adapts to various soil types, preferably well-drained and moderately fertile. It tolerates poor and chalky soils. Avoid waterlogging, particularly in winter.
Watering
Water regularly during growth and flowering periods, keeping the soil slightly moist without waterlogging it. Reduce watering outside the growing season. Once established, the plant shows good drought tolerance.
Fertilizer
As a legume, chickpea vetchling fixes atmospheric nitrogen on its own. A limited application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and training
Pinch young plants to encourage a bushier habit and better branching. Remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period. Generally, this herbaceous plant does not require drastic pruning.
Diseases and pests
Chickpea vetchling is generally robust. Watch for powdery mildew and rot in case of excessive humidity. In shaded conditions, whiteflies or aphids may occasionally colonize the plant. Ensure good air circulation around the foliage.
Did you know?
Chickpea vetchling (Lathyrus cicera) was long cultivated as a forage plant and for its small edible seeds in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. In archaeology, its remains have been found at Neolithic sites, confirming its very ancient use as a staple food. Its Latin name "Lathyrus" comes from Greek, literally meaning "very edible," testifying to the historical importance of this genus in ancient civilizations.
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.