Overview
Vigna unguiculata is a climbing annual biennial in the genus Vigna, part of the Fabaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Vigna unguiculata grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1c. Suggested uses include edible crops and ornamental.
About
Vigna unguiculata, commonly known as cowpea, is a climbing annual or biennial plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It features deciduous foliage and thrives in full sun, ideally in a south-facing, sheltered position. This cultivar prefers fertile, well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH and is best propagated by seed. Suitable for edible crops and ornamental use, it is of interest during the spring and summer seasons and requires protection in the UK, with a hardiness rating of H1c.
About the genus
Vigna is a genus of plants in the legume family, Fabaceae, with a pantropical distribution. It includes some well-known cultivated species, including many types of beans. Some members of the genus were previously classified in Phaseolus.
Wikipedia contributors, "Vigna", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Vigna
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Vigna
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1c
Plant details
Vigna unguiculata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Climbing
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Edible crops, Ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Vigna unguiculata
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Vigna unguiculata?
Vigna unguiculata prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Vigna unguiculata need?
Vigna unguiculata grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Vigna unguiculata hardy in the UK?
Vigna unguiculata has an RHS hardiness rating of H1c, meaning it needs a warm, frost-free position of 5–10°C and is best grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Vigna unguiculata?
Seed.