★ Organically grown on our farm
Whippoorwill Pea, also known as Climbing Brown Speckled Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), is a treasured heirloom legume celebrated for its vigorous climbing vines, rich flavor, and dependable harvests. This historic variety originated in Africa and predates the 1860s, making it a valuable addition for gardeners who appreciate rare and time-honored crops.
The plants produce distinctive brown speckled peas along long slender pods and feature attractive trifoliate foliage paired with delicate pale purple to white blossoms. Young pods may be harvested fresh as tender green vegetables, while mature peas can be dried and stored as a nutritious protein-rich staple.
Whippoorwill Peas thrive in warm weather and can climb up to 8 feet tall when provided with trellises, fencing, or other sturdy supports. Once established, the plants are highly drought tolerant and naturally improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, making them excellent for crop rotation, sustainable gardening, and homestead production.
Whippoorwill Pea Seed Details
- Quantity: 25 Seeds
- Seed Planting Depth: 1–1.5 Inches
- Germination Temperature: 70–85°F
- Days to Germination: 5–8 Days
- Row Spacing: 5 Inches
- Plant Spacing: 6 Inches
- 100-Foot Row Yield: Approx. 20 lbs
- Sun Requirements: Full Sun
- Harvest Time: Approximately 60 Days
- Growth Habit: Climbing Vine
How to Save Whippoorwill Pea Seeds
Whippoorwill Peas are primarily self-pollinating, so cross-pollination between cowpea varieties is uncommon. However, separating varieties by approximately 50 feet is recommended when saving seeds for purity.
Similar to English peas and beans, allow Whippoorwill Pea pods to fully mature and dry naturally on the plant until they become brown and brittle. Mature pods may also be harvested and spread out indoors or outdoors in a dry protected area to continue curing, as long as they remain protected from rain and excess moisture.
Once the pods are thoroughly dry, shell the peas and store the seeds in a cool dry place inside an airtight labeled container for future planting seasons.
