Contents
Description
Vigna Luteola, commonly known as the Wild Cowpea, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is an annual herb that reaches up to 60 cm in height and is native to India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from July to September and has a fruit that is a legume pod containing seeds. The Wild Cowpea is a hardy plant that can withstand drought and poor soil conditions, making it a popular choice for gardeners and farmers alike.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Vigna |
Appearance
The Wild Cowpea has a bushy and upright growth habit with green, elongated, and oval-shaped leaves that grow alternately on the stem. The plant produces yellow flowers that are small and grow in clusters. The flowers eventually give way to legume pods that are flat, elongated, and contain seeds. The plant’s roots are shallow and fibrous, making it easy to grow in a variety of soil types.
Care Guide
Water: The Wild Cowpea is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is recommended to water it once per week during dry spells.Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied once in the growing season.Soil: The Wild Cowpea prefers well-drained, sandy soil but can grow in a variety of soil types, including poor soil.Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The Wild Cowpea can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Wild Cowpea is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and leafhoppers. Diseases that can affect the plant include root rot and powdery mildew.
Habitat
The Wild Cowpea is native to India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan and grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and disturbed areas. The plant is also grown as a crop in many parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Wild Cowpea be grown in containers?A: Yes, the Wild Cowpea can be grown in containers but will require regular watering and fertilization.Q: Is the Wild Cowpea edible?A: Yes, the seeds of the Wild Cowpea are edible and are commonly used in Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine.Q: How long does it take for the Wild Cowpea to mature?A: The Wild Cowpea matures in 70-90 days after planting.Q: Can the Wild Cowpea be grown in cold climates?A: No, the Wild Cowpea is not cold-hardy and cannot tolerate frost.
Related Plants
- Vigna Radiata (Mung Bean)
- Vigna Angularis (Adzuki Bean)
- Vigna Unguiculata (Cowpea)
References
- “Vigna Luteola.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 1, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280295.
- “Vigna Luteola.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed July 1, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:51674-1.
- “Wild cowpea.” CABI Invasive Species Compendium. Accessed July 1, 2021. https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/117980.
