Siberian peashrub siberian-peashrub Siberian peashrub (Caragana arborescens) is a very hardy, fast-growing leguminous shrub (sometimes a small tree) valued for windbreaks, hedges, shelterbelts, and as a nurse plant in cold and dry climates. It fixes atmospheric nitrogen via root nodules, improving soil fertility for nearby plants. It tolerates poor, alkaline, and drought-prone soils, as well as urban conditions and wind exposure. Yellow pea-like flowers appear in late spring followed by small pods. In some regions it self-seeds; manage seed set if spread is a concern. It forms a deep taproot—transplant while young. Growing conditions LightFull sun to light shade; best flowering and seed set in full sun. Soil typeWell-drained loam or sandy soil; tolerates poor, dry, and calcareous soils. Water requirementLow once established; moderate during first 1–2 seasons. Nutrient requirementLow. As a nitrogen-fixing legume it generally needs no added N. Back to plant list
