Differences Between Green Peas & Split Peas

Pisum sativum is the scientific name for the common garden pea, a popular food in many different parts of the world. Depending on the manner used to prepare the vegetable, these peas are called "green peas" or alternately "split peas." What differentiates these peas is how they are processed and used in cooking. While they may have different culinary uses, green peas and split peas are essentially the same plant.

1. Green Peas

   • "Green pea" is the term used to describe the standard Pisum sativum plant. These peas are also called garden peas or English peas and have been grown in Britain for about 12,000 years.