Tom Thumb, Heirloom Pea Seeds

Tom Thumb, Heirloom Pea Seeds — The 1850s English Dwarf Heirloom, Only 8–9 Inches Tall, Perfect for Containers

Tom Thumb (Pisum sativum) — also known as Half Pint Pea — originated in England and was first introduced in the US by Landreth Seeds, Philadelphia, in the 1850s. At just 8–9 inches tall, it is the ultimate container pea — more frost-tolerant than most varieties, requires no staking, and produces sweet, tender, delicious pods when harvested very young. Excellent for cold frames, window boxes, and small-space gardens. 50–55 days.

Why Grow Tom Thumb?

• Only 8–9 inches tall — the ultimate container and small-space pea
• 1850s English heirloom — introduced to the US by Landreth Seeds, Philadelphia
• More frost-tolerant than most peas — excellent for cold frames and early sowing
• No staking required — truly self-contained
• Sweet, tender pods when harvested young — also a shelling type
• Open-pollinated heirloom — save seed year after year

Growing Notes

Direct sow outdoors in March as soon as soil is workable — plants withstand frost to 20°F. Can also be sown indoors and transplanted, or grown in containers year-round with adequate light. Plant 1 inch deep, 6 inches apart. No staking needed. Harvest pods young for best flavor. 50–55 days from direct sow.

Days to maturity: 50–55 days
Plant height: 8–9 inches
Type: Heirloom, Open-Pollinated, Non-GMO, Annual
Sun: Full sun
USDA Zones: 3–12