Black-eyed Bean (Vigna unguiculata)

Black-eyed Dolicho Bean (Vigna unguiculata): before the Americas, these were the beans consumed on our continent, dating back to classical times. They are easily recognized in Annibale Carracci's "The Bean Eater" plate, dating back to the late 16th century. The plant has a bushy growth habit; like many other ancient varieties, it does not require significant watering, but does require constant irrigation during fruit set. It is particularly resistant to the common plant diseases of the species and normally requires no intervention throughout its entire growing cycle. Once very widespread, it is now cultivated only in certain areas of Puglia, Tuscany, and Veneto.