60–70 days from direct sow — Bean Seeds - Bush - California Black-Eye Cowpeas
The California Black-Eye cowpea is a warm-season legume known for its creamy pods and distinctive black “eye” marking. This variety is drought-tolerant, thrives in heat, and is a staple in Southern gardens and kitchens. Traditionally enjoyed in soups, stews, and salads, black-eye peas are also valued for fixing nitrogen in the soil, making them an excellent rotation crop for sustainable gardening.
Grow style:
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Containers: Can be grown in large pots (at least 5 gallons) in sunny, warm spots, though in-ground planting will maximize yield.
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In-ground: Ideal for sandy, well-drained soil; tolerates poorer soils better than most beans.
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Raised beds: Produces well with improved soil and consistent watering during early growth.
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Hydroponics: Not recommended—prefers soil-based growing.
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Small-space gardens: Works well in community garden plots or mixed with companion crops like corn.
Prolific? Yes; each bush plant can yield approximately 0.5–1 pound of dry beans under optimal conditions. Plants are resilient once established and will continue producing until frost or extreme drought stress.
Sowing Instructions: Direct sow after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 65°F. Plant seeds 1–1.5 inches deep and 4–6 inches apart. Provide full sun and avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization to encourage more pods rather than excessive leaf growth. Harvest when pods are fully mature and dry for storage beans, or earlier for fresh-shelling use.
Average Seed Life: 3 years
Packet: 20 seeds
Heirloom: No — ‘California Blackeye #46’ was developed and released in 1987 as a modern variety.
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Note: IMPORTANT: I am not responsible for buyer germination success; seeds have been tested.
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Plant size and fullness may vary slightly from listing photos, but we strive for consistency.
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