Pea Seeds,
King Tut Purple Garden
Faster shipping options also available.
Description
(Pisum sativum). A very rare and amazing garden pea! One of the most historical peas known, this particular variety is said to have been taken from the tomb of famed Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, or King Tut. The story is, his servants planted and harvested these peas to help provide for his afterlife. Though some claim to have debunked the story, Lynn McKee's family tradition asserts that her father received the seeds found in the boy King's tomb, where they had been undisturbed for nearly 5,000 years until Howard Carter found the tomb on Nov. 4, 1922. From there, as the legend goes, the seeds were taken to England where they were propagated and shared with friends. "The conditions within Egyptian pyramids are very dry and would permit seed longevity in certain species to extend to thousands of years," one document said. Some claim, though, it is likely the seeds originated in early 20th century English gardens. The Fortean Times says "It is sometimes said that Tutankhamun's Pea originated on the country estate of Lord Carnarvon, who financed Howard Carter's search for King Tut's resting place and was subsequently named in honor of Carnarvon's claim to fame, rather than the plant's origin." As an interesting turn to the story, we located the seed and found the story from Japanese seed collectors during our travels there. Stunning fuschia purple flowers give way to tasty, fat purple pods on strong and vigorous plants that love cool weather. This variety has proven highly productive and makes a delicious soup pea, or pick it young as a purple snow pea. Try this piece of living history in your garden! A wonderful source of healthy, plant-based proteins to keep a body strong!
Growing Tips: King Tut Purple peas thrive in cooler weather and are ideal for both early spring and fall plantings. The ideal growing temperature is 45-80 F, and the plants require 6-12 hours of sun daily. Sprouts form in 10-30 days, and the plant matures in about 70.
Plant Details
- Botanical Name
- Pisum sativum
- Life Cycle
- Annual
- Growth Habit
- Pole
- Sun Requirement
- 6–12 hr.
- Days to Germinate
- 10–30
- Days to Maturity
- 70
- Planting Depth
- 1 in.
- Plant Spacing
- 4 in.
- Ideal Temperature
- 45–80°F
- Frost Hardy
- Yes
When to Grow
How to Sow and Plant
How to Grow
How to Save Seeds
FAQ
Can I grow King Tut Purple peas in containers?
Yes, they can be grown in containers, provided the containers are deep enough (at least 12 inches) and have good drainage. Use a trellis or stakes to support the plants, and ensure they receive adequate sunlight and water.
How do I save seeds from King Tut Purple peas?
To save seeds, allow the pods to mature fully on the plant until they turn brown and the seeds rattle inside. Harvest the pods and let them dry further if necessary. Store the dried seeds in a cool, dry place. King Tut Purple peas are self-pollinating, so maintaining a distance of about 50 feet from other pea varieties can help prevent cross-pollination.
What are the ideal growing conditions for King Tut Purple peas?
They grow best in cool temperatures between 45 F and 80 F. They prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH. Consistent moisture is crucial for their growth, particularly during flowering and pod development stages. Full sunlight is ideal for optimal growth and pod production.
Browse our full range of pea seeds.
