Formerly, cowpeas were much more grown in this country than at present. The plants are generally near prostrate and vining although upright varieties are available. The trifoliate leaves are long stemmed. Leaflets are generally somewhat heai-t shaped, up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. Pods are long, slender and glabrous.
Cowpeas are palatable and nutritious both for pasture and hay.
They also constitute an important soil improvement crop.