Hairypod Cowpea

Vigna luteola

Hairypod Cowpea

Harry Rose from South West Rocks, Australia

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Vigna
Species:
Vigna luteola

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Vine
Height:
6-8 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jan, feb, mar, apr, may, jun, jul, aug, sep, oct, nov, dec
Bloom Colors:
Yellow

Native Range

United States: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Virgin Islands

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Caribbean pod borer (Fundella pellucens), Epinotia perplexana, Ufa rubedinella, velvetbean caterpillar (Anticarsia gemmatalis), Long-tailed Skipper (Urbanus proteus)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
Commonly found in coastal and wetland areas