California Blackeye No. 5 Black-Eyed Pea

‘California Blackeye No. 5’ is a dependable black-eyed pea, also commonly grown as a cowpea or bean, known for heavy yields, excellent disease resistance, and rich flavor. Vigorous plants produce straight, plump pods filled with large, smooth seeds marked by the classic black eye. The peas have a sweet, mild flavor and buttery texture that make them a longtime favorite in Southern cooking.

Sow ‘California Blackeye No. 5’ directly in the garden about ½ inch deep after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Space plants 3 to 4 inches apart and grow in full sun. Plants typically reach 15 to 18 inches tall and thrive in warm growing conditions.

Ready to harvest in about 65 days, pick the 6- to 7-inch pods young for tender snap beans, harvest filled pods for fresh shell peas, or allow the pods to mature and dry fully for storage.

Mild, buttery, and versatile, ‘California Blackeye No. 5’ is excellent for fresh cooking, soups, stews, side dishes, freezing, canning, and drying.