The vascular discoloration just above the soil line in this cowpea stem is characteristic of Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. tracheiphilum.

Brown discoloration in the vascular tissue in the center of the stem caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. tracheiphilum.; Tulare County Credit: Carol A. Frate
Credit: Carol A. Frate