Siberian Peashrub

Siberian peashrub is a tough, upright deciduous shrub or small tree with bright green compound leaves and yellow pea-shaped flowers in spring. It tolerates cold, drought, wind and poor soils. ## Form and placement [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/caragana-arborescens) describes mature plants 15–20 feet tall with a somewhat smaller spread; they can also be trained as a small tree. Plant in full sun or light shade. The [Kwantlen Polytechnic University profile](https://plantdatabase.kpu.ca/PlantPrint/caab) records May flowers and zone 2 for the species. It tolerates poor, sandy or alkaline soil and dry conditions once established, and its roots fix nitrogen. ## Garden uses Use it for a windbreak, informal screen or erosion control. Its spiny stems and vigorous growth call for room away from paths. [USDA Forest Service](https://research.fs.usda.gov/treesearch/32630) notes its adaptation to sandy alkaline soils and open sites on the northern Great Plains. ## Maintenance Water during establishment, then reduce irrigation. Remove damaged or crossing branches and thin older stems as needed; allow room for its mature size.