Peas originate from the temperate and semi‑arid regions of West Asia and the eastern Mediterranean, where they were domesticated early from wild legumes. From there they spread along trade routes into Europe and, over long periods, were adapted to a wide range of climates. Their diversity includes smooth and wrinkled seeds, small‑ and large‑seeded types, and colour variations from green and yellow to cream‑white and black — all reflecting the crop’s original breadth.

In subtropical climates, peas benefit from mild winter periods and can be grown early in the year. In temperate regions, many of our traditional and historically preserved open‑pollinated varieties thrive reliably when sown at the right time and given sufficiently cool, stable conditions. Peas are among the adaptable crop plants that can be cultivated successfully across different climate zones.