Runner. 90 days. Shelling/dry bean. A true soil savior! Cowpeas are so versatile- especially these Red Rippers! They fixate atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, revitalizing your planting area. Cowpeas can be picked green as a snap bean, yellow as a fresh shelling bean, or brown as a long-term storage dry bean. The young leaves can also be eaten as a green/spinach alternative. All cowpeas are in the same family as Black Eyed Peas and have a similar flavor. They can be prepared the same as well. These are perfect for the southeastern US where high heat and humidity really get these plants going! They seem to thrive when most other garden plants are struggling in the heat of the summer. Plants will sprawl and benefit from a small trellis or fence. Plants will produce beautiful purple blooms which mature into 6-10 inch long pods packed with peas. Pick often to ensure productivity. Plant outside after all danger of frost has passed. Soaking beans/peas in warm water for 12-24 hours before planting helps them germinate much more reliably. 25-30 seeds per pack