Vigna vexillata Seeds | Wild Cowpea
LATIN NAME: Vigna vexillata
COMMON NAME: Wild Cowpea
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Wild Cowpea (Vigna vexillata) is a trailing, perennial. It spreads quickly through grass into a loose, twining mass, and it stands heat, drought and poor, sandy soils well. Full sun is ideal, in deep, fertile ground. These traits together are what have kept the plant in gardens for so long.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the Vigna group, Vigna vexillata is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. Wild cowpea has a real and distinguished place in the research. The upshot for anyone sowing it is reassurance — cultivated stock of this plant has a long, well-documented track record.
Uses & Benefits
In the garden, Wild Cowpea earns its place in borders, containers and mixed plantings, and it also rewards growers who raise plants for cutting, drying or kitchen use. Ecologically, wild cowpea is a generous vine of the garden. Its small, purple, pink or white, pea-like flowers feed bees and many insects, and its fine, twining, leafy stems give a fine, green cover to trellis and warm fence. It takes hold quickly and asks for no special treatment from then on.
Mung, adzuki, cowpea and their kin are the protein and fiber backbone of Asian kitchens, and mung bean’s cooling soup is a Chinese summer institution; they are among the most digestible of all legumes.
Growing from Seed
Starting Wild Cowpea from seed is simple and satisfying. A simple routine works well: sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, maintain even moisture, and provide full sun. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
The traditional uses covered above are what first made this species worth cultivating. Given the right start, Wild Cowpea is a long-term garden companion. Given full sun and free drainage, it asks for little routine attention.
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