Pea in Shan Ye has lush foliage and abundant leaves. The fresh weight of leaves can account for 80.0% of the whole plant weight at flowering stage, and the ratio of stem to leaf is1∶ 4.2. At maturity, although some leaves fell off, the fresh weight of leaves still accounted for 55.3%, and the ratio of stem to leaf reached 1∶ 1.2. It is rich in nutrients. From flowering stage to fruiting stage, the content of crude protein accounts for15.75% ~16.55% of dry matter, crude fat accounts for 2.08% ~ 3.08%, crude fiber accounts for 29.82% ~ 33.02%, and nitrogen-free extract accounts for 35.38% ~ 33.85%. Moreover, amino acids are also abundant, and the essential amino acids for livestock are 0.18% ~1.41%at seedling stage and 0.18% ~/.21%at flowering stage. Shan Ye pea has good palatability, which is liked by all kinds of domestic animals, whether it is green-fed, grazing or prepared hay. Cattle, horses and sheep gain weight without feeding after eating it. It is an excellent forage plant.

Essential amino acid composition of pea in Shan Ye (%)