The black eyed pea (Vigna unguiculata) is a widely cultivated legume known for its edible beans. Its flowers also contribute significantly to its life cycle and visual appeal. This article explores their characteristics, growing conditions, and care.
Characteristics of the Black Eyed Pea Flower
Black eyed pea flowers typically present in shades of white, cream, or pale yellow, sometimes with a subtle purple or pink blush. These blooms are pea-like, or papilionaceous, with a butterfly-like structure featuring a large upper petal (standard), two side petals (wings), and two lower petals fused to form a keel. Individual flowers are small, usually about 1 inch long, appearing in pairs or small clusters along the stems.
Flowering occurs as the plant matures, and individual blooms are short-lived. Flowers attract pollinators like bees, aiding in the plant’s reproductive process. Their presence signifies the plant’s readiness to produce pods.
Growing Conditions for Black Eyed Peas
Successful cultivation begins with appropriate environmental conditions. These plants thrive in full sun, requiring 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Well-draining, moderately fertile, sandy loam soil is preferred, with a pH between 5.8 and 7.0.
Black eyed peas are warm-weather crops, performing best in temperatures from 65°F to 95°F (18°C to 35°C). They are sensitive to frost; plant after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures consistently reach 60-65°F (15-18°C). Initial watering ensures consistent moisture for seed germination and establishment.
Care and Maintenance for Optimal Flowering
Once established, ongoing care supports the black eyed pea plant through its flowering phase. Consistent watering is beneficial, particularly during dry spells and active flower formation. While drought-tolerant, regular deep watering during flowering can significantly improve yields. Water the soil directly rather than wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization should be cautious, as black eyed peas are legumes and fix nitrogen in the soil. Excessive nitrogen leads to lush foliage growth at the expense of flower and pod production. If soil nutrients are low, a light application of low-nitrogen or balanced fertilizer, or compost, provides necessary support. Vining varieties benefit from support structures like trellises to keep plants off the ground, improving air circulation and simplifying harvesting.
From Flower to Pod
Following successful pollination, the black eyed pea flower transforms into the familiar edible pod. Black eyed peas are largely self-pollinating, producing seeds without external help, though insects can assist. After pollination, delicate flower petals wilt and fall away. The ovary at the base of the flower swells, developing into the green bean pod.
These pods contain developing black eyed peas, typically holding 6 to 13 seeds per pod. Depending on the variety, it takes 60 to 90 days from planting for pods to mature, with some varieties taking up to 100 days. Maturation involves the pods filling out and seeds developing their characteristic ‘eye.’