This plant of the Fabaceae family has been known about since Neolithic times and has been a staple food in Europe and the Mediterranean basin for centuries.
The young buds and leaves of the pea plants, harvested when the plant has reached a height of 15-25 cm, have a delicate and aromatic taste. They are rich in iron, phosphorus, calcium, potassium and vitamins A, B1, C and PP. They are effective in helping with constipation, and with a low fat and calorie count, are well adapted for hypolipidic and low-calorie diets.