Purple Hull Pinkeye Cowpea on a white background.
Cowpea Seeds, Purple Hull Pinkeye
Texas Caviar Beans made out of Purple Hull Pinkeye Cowpeas.
Purple Hull Pinkeye Cowpeas in pods.
Purple Hull Pinkeye Cowpea on a white background.
Cowpea Seeds, Purple Hull Pinkeye
Texas Caviar Beans made out of Purple Hull Pinkeye Cowpeas.
Purple Hull Pinkeye Cowpeas in pods.

Cowpea Seeds,
Purple Hull Pinkeye

4.642 ReviewsSKU: #CW109Min. seed count: 50
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Description

(Vigna unguiculata). A delectable, nutty-flavored cowpea perfectly suited to the screaming hot summer heat in the South. This classic southern cowpea has long been a favorite of our customers for its impressive heat tolerance and wild productivity.

Growing Tips: Purple Hull Pinkeye cowpeas are fast-maturing, heat-tolerant legumes ideal for hot summer gardens. Known for their eye-catching pods and sweet, nutty flavor, they also improve soil through nitrogen fixation. These vigorous growers benefit from full sun, occasional deep watering, and minimal fertilization. Their bushy habit suppresses weeds naturally, making them a low-maintenance and high-reward crop.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Vigna unguiculata
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Bush
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
60–70
Planting Depth
1–2 in.
Plant Spacing
4–6 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Purple Hull Pinkeye cowpeas after the last frost when soil temperatures consistently reach 65°F or higher. In mild climates, multiple sowings can be made every few weeks through midsummer for staggered harvests. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Soaking seeds for 24 hours before planting can speed up germination. Direct sow Purple Hull Pinkeye seeds into warm, well-drained soil. Plant seeds 1 to 2 inches deep, spacing them 4 to 6 inches apart in rows 18 to 30 inches apart. Water gently to settle the soil. Avoid compacted or poorly drained areas to ensure healthy germination and root development.

How to Grow

Water once or twice a week during dry spells, especially while pods are developing. Purple Hull Pinkeye cowpeas are drought-resistant but yield best with consistent moisture. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which reduce flowering. Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Harvest pods at the green-shell stage for fresh eating or allow them to dry fully for seed storage.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow pods to fully mature and dry on the plant
  • Harvest when pods are brown and brittle, and seeds rattle inside
  • Shell pods and collect seeds
  • Remove debris and inspect for damage or insect presence
  • Dry seeds thoroughly for 1–2 weeks in a shaded, airy spot
  • Store in a cool, dry, airtight container labeled with date and variety

FAQ

Can Purple Hull Pinkeye cowpeas be eaten fresh or dried?

Yes, they are versatile. Pick for fresh shelling once the pods have turned purple and the peas inside feel plump but are still soft; pick young green pods only if you want them as snaps, and leave pods on the plant until dry and brittle for dry peas. Fresh or dry, they offer rich flavor and high protein content.

Do Purple Hull Pinkeye cowpeas need trellising?

No. Most Purple Hull Pinkeye varieties are bush-type and do not require staking. However, some semi-vining strains may benefit from light support, especially in windy locations or tight spaces.

Are Purple Hull Pinkeye cowpeas good for small gardens?

Absolutely. Their compact growth, quick maturity, and high yield make them ideal for backyard gardens, raised beds, or even large containers with full sun and well-draining soil.

Browse our full range of cowpea seeds.
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