The Unknown Pea of Washington Parrrish, Cowpeas, Late 1800's Heirloom, Rare

The Unknown Pea of Washington Parish: A 30-Year Search Rewarded Discover one of the rarest gems in the world of southern field peas. At Firefly Farm & Mercantile, we are honored to offer the Unknown Pea of Washington Parish. This isn't just a seed; it is a piece of Louisiana history that was nearly lost to time, brought back from the brink by one of the most dedicated seed savers in America. 📜 The Legend of the 30-Year Search The story of this cowpea is a testament to botanical detective work. It was rediscovered by John Coykendall, the renowned master gardener and seed historian. The Quest: Coykendall spent 30 years searching for this specific variety after hearing stories of its exceptional quality. The Origin: The pea was a staple in Washington Parish, Louisiana, during the early 1900s. It was highly prized by local families for decades before disappearing from the public eye. The Recovery: After three decades of following leads and talking to elder gardeners, Coykendall finally located the seeds, ensuring this ancestral variety could be shared with a new generation of growers. 🌸 Botanical Beauty & Growth Habit The Unknown Pea of Washington Parish is a vigorous and beautiful addition to any garden, offering ornamental value alongside its heavy food production. The Vines: This is a true climber. Expect vigorous vines that easily reach 8 feet, requiring a sturdy trellis, fence, or "Three Sisters" planting. The Flowers: The plant produces striking blooms in varying shades of lavender, each anchored by a small, bright yellow center. The Pods: Slender, productive pods reach 7 to 8 inches in length. The Harvest: Each pod is densely packed with 16 to 18 peas, providing an incredible return for the space planted. 🎨 The "Cutshort" Seed Profile The seeds of this cowpea are visually distinct and share a characteristic usually reserved for rare mountain beans. Color: A beautiful cream to yellowish-tan hue. Shape: The seeds feature blunt ends, a physical trait known as a "cutshort." This happens because the peas are so crowded and tightly packed within the pod that they press against one another as they grow, squaring off the ends. Flavor: In the kitchen, these peas are known for their creamy texture and rich, "pot liquor" producing qualities, making them a premier choice for traditional Southern cooking. 🌿 Garden Specifications Feature Details Type Cowpea / Field Pea (Vigna unguiculata) Origin Washington Parish, Louisiana (Early 1900s) Growth Habit Pole / Climbing (8 ft vines) Flower Color Lavender with Yellow center Seed Count 16–18 peas per pod Seed Shape Blunt-ended "Cutshort" ✨ Why We Love It "The Unknown Pea of Washington Parish is the 'holy grail' for heirloom collectors. To think that John Coykendall spent thirty years looking for this exact pea tells you everything you need to know about its value. It is a vigorous survivor from the early 1900s that offers a flavor and history you simply cannot find in modern agriculture." 👨🌾 Cultivation Notes Cowpeas love the heat. Plant these when the soil is thoroughly warm and the danger of frost has passed. Because of their 8-foot reach, they are perfect for vertical gardening. Harvest the pods when they are "green-shell" for fresh eating, or allow them to dry completely on the vine for a beautiful, tan-colored dry pea that will store all winter. Grow the legend. Order the Unknown Pea of Washington Parish today from Firefly Farm & Mercantile! 🌻