Tohono O’odham Cowpea Bean

A resilient heirloom from the Sonoran Desert, Tohono O’odham Cowpea is a true gift from the O’odham people! Originally selected after its arrival from Africa, this variety has adapted to thrive in extreme heat, making it a perfect choice for hot, arid climates. In the O’odham language, cowpeas are called U’us mu:n or U’us Bavi. This variety captivates with its unique growth habit, producing fleshy pea-like blooms at the tips of the plant that develop into long pods in pairs. It stands out for its prolific production, even in short seasons, maturing into tan pods filled with small black and white mottled beans. Tohono O’odham Cowpeas are incredibly versatile. Their long, thin green pods can be eaten fresh or sautéed like green beans in summer. In fall, the dried beans shell easily and cook into a creamy, thin-skinned texture while still holding their shape—perfect for hearty dishes like bean salads, soups, and stews. Grow Tohono O’odham Cowpea for a culturally significant, heat-resistan