Mummy pea

[grawrc]

I've been given a Mummy pea plant - from the seed taken from the Pharaoh's tomb. I'm told it can grow to 3 metres.

Given its rarity I'm very worried in case I manage to kill it off. any hints and tips? Or should I just treat it like any other pea and hope for the best?

[grawrc]

[Deb P]

I grew it a few years ago and it did not reach 3m with me.....2m at the most.

I'm afraid I didn't grow it again as the peas were small and mealy so not impressed! :-\

[saddad]

I haven't grown that one... but many heritage peas are "mealy" as they were grown as a protein source rather than for fresh use. The height will vary... my Magnum Bonum range from about 6' to 10' depending on the season and the position..  :)

[manicscousers]

We've grown it, Anne. It's fine if you catch it small but does go over very quickly. We grew them with out colossus and they did hit 7', I'll let you do the maths. The two seeds are now mixed up, if you would like some more tall peas, let me know, I've plenty left  ;D
Forgot to say, you can tell the difference in the pea pods as the colossus are very large compared to the mummy

[chriscross1966]

Sorry to rain on the parade but I refer you to Robert Brenchley's comment (adn information to the same from a mate at HSL) http://www.allotments4all.co.uk/smf/index.php?topic=58806.0;prev_next=next ... not from peas found in Pharoahs tomb I'm afraid.....

[grawrc]

Well that's a relief! Thanks for all the info. It seems like I shouldn't worry too much if I accidentally kill it off!!

[Robert_Brenchley]

No way does it go back beyond the 19th Century, but it is a rare variety. If you save the seeds instead of eating them, you should be able to get a small crop next year.

[Spudbash]

I grew Mummy last year and harvested them for use as mangetouts. They grew to the top of my supports and then dangled towards the sun for about two feet, by the time they'd finished. As mangetouts, they were very nice and would definitely grow them again. Huge vines means a larger crop, in my experience.

Hoping you enjoy your Mummys as much I enjoyed mine!

Spudbash  :)