General Information:

This perennial vine is a member of the pea family, but are beans and not peas. They produce compound leaves with yellow flowers. The hairypod cowpea is found distributed throughout most of Florida and grows best in full sunlight. They produce pod fruits year round that get about 2 ½ inches long.

Medicinal Uses:

In Ethiopia, the leaves and flowers are mixed with other substances to help treat ulcers and syphilis. The plant itself can be used to control lipid absorption and cholesterol levels. It has also shown antimicrobial and antineoplastic properties.

Did You Know:

The yellow flowers are edible both raw and cooked, but eating many could have a laxative effect on your body. You should also be sure to check the flower before consumption because the hairypod cowpea has a positive relationship with ants.