Cowpea: Zipper Cream
(Vigna unguiculata subsp. unguiculata)

Vigna unguiculata is a grain legume that originates in Africa. Attributes such as vine shape (climbing, prostrate, or semi-erect), seed color (shades of white, pink, brown, and black), and seed maturation time (60 to 240 days) vary with variety. Pods appear in V-shaped pairs. It is an important source of edible, dry seeds. Immature/green pods, seeds, and leaves are also eaten. It makes an excellent green manure/cover crop and can be fed to livestock as hay, silage, or cut and carry forage. Best varieties for small-scale agriculture are usually those with spreading vines (for ground coverage/animal fodder) and high pod production (for human/livestock consumption). Early-maturing types are suited to short rainy seasons.

A fresh market pea that gained the name "zipper" as the pods are easily opened and green peas removed. 70 days to fresh shelled peas. The thick walls of the pod help it resist curculio, stink bug, and weevil damage. Bushing type with pods produced above canopy. Pods contain large, creamy-white seeds.