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The Siberian pea tree, also known as Siberian peashrub, originates from Siberia and regions of China. It is an edible plant from the Fabaceae family and the Caragana genus, and its scientific name is Caragana arborescens.
This plant has bright yellow pea-shaped cluster blooms and thin stems. It is also important to note that this plant thrives in zones one through eight.
Siberian Pea Tree Care
Growing a Siberian pea tree is simple. But to ensure your pea tree thrives, you must know proper care practices.
From its watering needs to lighting and fertilizer, you can find all the information you need about Siberian peashrub care below!
Soil
The great thing about this shrub is that they are tolerant of all soil conditions. Whether that’s from moist to dry and clay to sandy soil, it can handle it all. The shrub flourishes when the soil is highly acidic or alkaline.
Watering
Siberian pea tree do not require much irrigation and can be grown with minimal watering. Although, you may find that when establishing the shrub/tree, it needs more water than once it matures.
Lighting
The tree needs access to full sun for six or more hours a day. So, if you are planting the tree in your yard, be sure to choose a location that only receives shade in the later afternoon or evening.
Humidity & Temperature
One thing that everybody should know about the Siberian peashrub is that it will do best in locations with very cold winters. Although, it can be grown in other areas with more temperate winter conditions. It can also tolerate temperatures below -40 Fahrenheit and Celsius but enjoys when temperatures are around 75°F or 23.89°C when warmer. Moderate humidity conditions are best for the shrub.
Fertilizing
Siberian pea tree does not need fertilizer because they are highly adaptable. But some growers may opt to use a slow-release tablet fertilizer or granules once a year in the spring.
Propagation
The most straightforward method for propagating a Siberian peashrub is through seeds. For seeds, you will need to place the seeds you collect into a bowl of warm water for 12 to 24 hours to soak. After soaking, remove the seeds and allow them to rest. After resting, you can sow any of the seeds that swelled and absorbed the water. The seeds that remain small may need cold stratification[1].
Diseases & Pests
Deer browsing is a prevalent problem for Siberian pea trees. Grasshoppers can also be a source of destruction for the tree, causing complete defoliation[2]. You may also notice red spider mites, blister beetles, and aphids affecting your shrub.
A common disease for the tree is leaf spot disease. This disease causes fungal growth on the foliage and leaves unsightly discoloration spots behind.
Toxicity
The Siberian pea tree is safe, and there have been no reports of incidents in either humans or animals. The plant’s legumes, pods, and oils are safe to consume.
Siberian pea shrub growth rate
Caragana arborescens, also known as the Siberian pea shrub, has an average to fast growth rate. It is a self-sowing plant that can spread quickly. Its quick self-sowing abilities have made it an invasive plant species in Alaska.
How to prune a Siberian Pea Tree
Winter and early spring are the best times to prune a Siberian pea tree. To prune the tree, remove 1/3 of the most mature branches at the base of the shrub/tree. If you want to prune while it is still blooming, wait until the end of the blooms’ life.
Siberian pea shrub taste
Although a Siberian pea shrub’s legumes are edible, they are bland in taste. They are best when added to a savory or spicy dish to make them more enjoyable.
Siberian weeping pea tree
The Siberian weeping pea tree is the same plant as the Siberian pea shrub. The difference between the two is that the Siberian weeping pea tree produces branches and foliage that hang down like a weeping willow. In contrast, the traditional Siberian peashrub has more upright stems and branches.
References:
[1]Wikimedia Foundation. (2022, March 29). Stratification (seeds). Wikipedia. Retrieved October 24, 2022, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stratification_(seeds)#:~:text=Cold%20stratification%20is%20the%20process,conditions%20before%20germination%20will%20ensue.
[2]Dietz, D. R., Slabaugh, P. E., & Bonner, F. T. (n.d.). Pea family Caragana arborescens Lam. . Retrieved October 24, 2022, from https://www.fs.usda.gov/rm/pubs_series/wo/wo_ah727/wo_ah727_321_323.pdf