Contents
Description
Vigna Speciosa, commonly known as the beach pea, is a species of legume that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 1 meter tall and is native to the coastal areas of the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The beach pea produces beautiful purple flowers and edible seeds that are often used in traditional medicine and cooking.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Vigna |
| Species | Speciosa |
Appearance
The beach pea has a bushy growth habit and produces long, slender stems that are covered in small, green leaves. The plant produces beautiful, purple flowers that are arranged in clusters and have a sweet fragrance. The flowers give way to long, cylindrical pods that contain the plant’s edible seeds. The seeds are small and round, with a dark green to black coloration.
Care Guide
The beach pea is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. It requires moderate watering and fertilization, as well as a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate a range of hardiness zones. However, it is best suited for zones 9 to 11.
Water
The beach pea requires moderate watering, with soil moisture being maintained at all times. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, or more frequently if the soil becomes dry.
Fertilization
The beach pea benefits from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer should be applied every two to three months to promote healthy growth and development.
Soil
The beach pea requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moderately acidic, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Sunlight
The beach pea prefers full sun exposure, but can also tolerate partial shade. It is best grown in areas with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
The beach pea can tolerate a range of hardiness zones, but is best suited for zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The beach pea is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot, fungal diseases, and aphids. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent these issues from occurring.
Habitat
The beach pea is native to the coastal areas of the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is commonly found growing in sandy soils, along beaches, and in other coastal habitats. The plant is also cultivated in gardens and farms for its edible seeds and ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the beach pea?
A: The beach pea is a species of legume that produces beautiful purple flowers and edible seeds.
Q: What growing conditions does the beach pea require?
A: The beach pea requires moderate watering and fertilization, a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, full sun exposure, and is best suited for hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Q: What pests and diseases can affect the beach pea?
A: The beach pea may be susceptible to root rot, fungal diseases, and aphids.
Q: Where is the beach pea native to?
A: The beach pea is native to the coastal areas of the tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Related Plants
- Vigna angularis
- Vigna aconitifolia
- Vigna mungo
- Vigna radiata
References
- “Vigna speciosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 Feb. 2022. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfindersearch.aspx?taxonid=275934&isprofile=0&pt=3>.
- “Vigna speciosa.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 10 Feb. 2022. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:519257-1>.
- “Beach pea (Vigna speciosa).” Plantz Africa. Accessed 10 Feb. 2022. <https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantvz/vignaspeciosa.htm>.
