Jerusalem Pea
Vigna unguiculata cylindricafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 4C7F — Vigna unguiculata cylindrica
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IOverview
Overview
The Jerusalem Pea (Vigna unguiculata cylindrica) is an annual vine and herb belonging to the Fabaceae family. Native to regions including Angola, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, and parts of South Africa, this plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that is well-draining and light to medium in texture. Known for its edible seed and seedpod, it can reach a height of 0.5 meters and is hardy in zones 10-12. Its distinctive features include its light requirement and adaptability to various soils within the pH range of 6 to 8.
Quick answers
What is Jerusalem Pea?
The Jerusalem Pea (Vigna unguiculata cylindrica) is an annual vine and herb belonging to the Fabaceae family. Native to regions including Angola, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, and parts of South Africa, this plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that is well-draining and light to medium in texture.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Jerusalem Pea thrives in full sun and requires moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture. It is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 10-12. This annual vine grows to about 0.5 meters tall and produces edible seed and seedpods. The plant prefers a pH between 6 and 8, making it adaptable to various soil conditions. For propagation, seeds can be directly sown in the garden after the last frost.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
10-12
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Vine, Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
6–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Jerusalem Pea for the first time
8steps
Start with Jerusalem Pea to gain experience in growing legumes.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, a sunny spot, and basic gardening tools like a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds after the last frost when soil temperatures are above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining, light or medium soil. Ensure containers are at least 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 2-3 cm deep, spaced 15-20 cm apart in rows 60 cm apart. Alternatively, start indoors and transplant after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide support for vines to grow upwards.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly with compost if needed. Watch for pests and diseases.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune vines as they grow to encourage more flowers and pods. Harvest seedpods when they turn brown.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too early in cold soil, neglecting support for climbing vines.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:SeedSeedpod
Edible uses: The Jerusalem pea is eaten for its seeds and seedpods. The young pods are often cooked or eaten raw in salads. Seeds can be roasted or boiled before consumption. They are typically prepared fresh but can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Pest controlNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Africa25 regions
native (25)AngolaBeninBotswanaCabo VerdeCameroonCôte d'IvoireEritreaEswatiniEthiopiaGambiaGhanaGuinea-BissauKenyaMalawiMaliMauritaniaMozambiqueNamibiaNigeriaRwandaSenegalSierra LeoneSudanTanzaniaTogo
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces, Caprivi Strip, Congo, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Provinces
XSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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