California Blackeye No. 5 Black-Eyed Pea

“Black-eyed pea” is a more recognizable search term than simply “bean,” while the description can explain that this variety is also commonly treated as a bean or cowpea.

‘California Blackeye No. 5’ is a vigorous, dependable variety that produces abundant crops of straight, plump pods filled with large, smooth seeds marked by the characteristic black eye. The beans have a sweet, pea-like flavor and buttery texture and offer excellent disease resistance.

Sow ‘California Blackeye No. 5’ directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Plants thrive in warm growing conditions and develop into productive, reliable plants throughout the season.

Harvest the pods young and tender for use as snap beans, allow the seeds to fill out for fresh shell beans, or leave the pods on the plants until fully mature and dry for storage. This versatility allows gardeners to harvest the same crop at several different stages.

A longtime Southern favorite, ‘California Blackeye No. 5’ is well suited for fresh cooking, soups, stews, side dishes, freezing, canning, and drying for later use.