English Pea (Pisum sativum 'Alaska')

Despite its name, the ‘Alaska’ English pea cultivar is **not native to Alaska**. The English pea (Pisum sativum) itself originates from the **Near East, specifically the Fertile Crescent region** (modern-day Iran, Iraq, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and Palestine).

The name ‘Alaska’ likely refers to its **ability to mature very early in the growing season and tolerate cooler temperatures**, making it suitable for short growing seasons like those found in regions such as Alaska. It was bred for that specific trait.