Cowpea

Vigna minima

Native to:
Borneo, Cambodia, China, Hainan, Japan, Jawa, Korea, Laos, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Myanmar, Nansei-shoto, New Guinea, Philippines, Sumatera, Taiwan, Thailand

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Vigna
Species:
Vigna minima
USDA Symbol:
VIMI8

Growth Characteristics

Height:
100 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
jul,aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
yellow

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★☆☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to open grasslands and savannas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
None required
Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
7–21 days
Notes:
Scarification improves germination rates. Soak seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours before sowing.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI