Tag: Vigna unguiculata

Despite their name, black-eyed peas are, in fact, a type of bean, botanically classified as *Vigna unguiculata*, or cowpea. The simple answer to why are black-eyed peas not called beans lies not in their biology, but in a rich history of cultural naming conventions and agricultural use that precedes modern scientific classification.

In many Southeast Asian countries, yard long bean leaves are a common and nutritious part of the diet, adding a pleasant flavor to various dishes. For those new to gardening or exploring edible plants, the question of whether you can eat yard long bean leaves is a valid one, and the answer is a definitive yes.