Canopy architecture and leaf type as traits of heat resistance in pea

•Lodged canopies, common in pea, had higher temperatures and heat stress.•Semileafless and upright plants contributed to cooler canopies with enhanced pea heat resistance, more pods and yield.•Upright canopies minimized lodging and heat absorption from hot soil.•Cultivars with normal leaves and vining habits lodged more but had greater yield under non-heat conditions.