The Carouby de Maussane pea is an heirloom variety with a rich history. This snow pea originates from Maussane, in the south of France, and has been grown since at least the 19th century. It’s known for its large 5 ” tender pods which can grow very large while still maintaining good quality. They are known for being very sweet and tender. The best time to harvest them is when the peas inside are barely showing. Even when the pods reach a large size, they retain their flavor and do not develop a fibrous layer, making them enjoyable at any stage of growth. The Carouby de Maussane pea is a mangetout type, meaning that the pods are eaten whole, without shelling.
This variety is characterized by its tall growth and is adorned with attractive purple flowers. The pods of the Carouby de Maussane are quite sizable in length, and require sturdy support due to the plant’s height. It’s a popular choice among gardeners not just for its flavor, but also for its ornamental qualities.
On average, each pod contains about eight peas.
Flowers and Aesthetics: The Carouby de Maussane pea plant is adorned with beautiful lavender and purple flowers. The flowers, which are borne in pairs and curl downwards, change color as they mature, transitioning from a deep dusky pink to various shades of purple, and finally to a lovely sky blue. The wing petal is deep velvety maroon, and the strong dark veining on the backs of the petals adds to their attractiveness. This aesthetic appeal makes the Carouby de Maussane suitable for ornamental gardening as well as culinary use.
When growing Carouby de Maussane peas, it’s important to note that like most peas, they prefer cooler weather. However, they are noted for holding up better than most varieties when the weather gets hot. It’s suggested to plant them as soon as the soil is thawed and workable after the snow has melted. A second batch can be planted 2 to 4 weeks after the first to ensure a longer supply. The peas take about 70 days to maturity and require regular harvesting to maintain productivity. They are best enjoyed fresh but can also be blanched and frozen for later use.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.