• Cowpea (*Vigna unguiculata), also known as black-eyed pea, is a drought-tolerant, multipurpose legume grown for its nutritious seeds (high in protein and carbs), edible leaves, and as fodder/green manure
• thriving in hot, arid regions by fixing nitrogen in the soil, with uses ranging from human food and livestock feed to cover crops. 
• Botanical Name: Vigna unguiculata.
• Origin: Africa.
• Uses: Food (seeds, leaves), animal feed (fodder), green manure, cover crop, canning.
• Nutritional Value (Seeds): Rich in protein (22-24%), carbohydrates (55-66%), iron, calcium, and essential amino acids; low in fat and sodium.
• Benefits: Drought-hardy, nitrogen-fixing (improving soil health), weed suppression, erosion control, excellent forage for livestock.
• Varieties: Includes common cowpea (black-eyed pea), catjang (smaller seeds), and yard-long bean (long pods). 

Cultivation & Management

• Growing Conditions: Thrives in warm temperatures and well-drained soils, ideal for semi-arid regions.
• Weed Control: Hand weeding or pre-emergence herbicides like Pendimethalin.
• Pest & Disease: Susceptible to aphids (vectors for mosaic virus); management involves natural predators, resistant varieties, and good sanitation.