Purple Hyacinth Bean, Labab purpureus
The Purple Hyacinth Bean, also known as Lablab purpureus, is a versatile legume native to Africa and Asia. It's cultivated in many parts of the world for its edible pods, flowers, and leaves, as well as its ornamental value.
* Florida Native: No
* Size at Maturity: Vining plant that reaches 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) tall when given support to climb.
* Growth Rate: Fast
* Bloom Season: Flowers throughout the summer and into early fall.
* Flower Color: Pinkish-purple flowers borne in clusters above the foliage.
* Leaf Shape: Trifoliate leaves with heart-shaped, green leaflets.
* Pod Color: Showy, glossy, purple pods that turn brown as they mature. Pods can be up to 3 inches long.
* Edible Uses: Young leaves, flowers, and immature pods are edible. The mature pods can be shelled for the green beans inside, similar to other shelling beans.
* Sunlight Requirements: Full sun for best growth and flower production.
* Soil Texture: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil but adaptable to various soil types.
* Soil pH: Adaptable to a wide range of soil pH levels (acidic, neutral, or alkaline).
* Moisture Requirements: Average to moist. Water regularly during dry periods, especially when young. Once established, it's moderately drought tolerant.
* Salt Spray Tolerance: No
Recommended Landscape Uses:
* Vertical gardening on trellises, fences, or walls.
* Can be grown in large containers on patios or balconies (provide support for climbing).
* Can be used as a nitrogen-fixing cover crop in vegetable gardens.
Maintenance Tips: Low maintenance.
* Water regularly during dry periods, especially during the first growing season.
* Provide a structure for the vine to climb on.
* Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms (optional).
* Harvest pods regularly when young and tender for best flavor.
Considerations:
* Not frost-tolerant. In colder climates, it's typically grown as an annual.
* Susceptible to some pests like aphids, mites, or bean beetles.
Toxicity: Raw mature seeds and dry pods can be toxic and should not be consumed. However, immature pods and young seeds are safe to eat when cooked properly.
Wildlife Benefits: Attracts butterflies and other pollinators.
Additional Information:
* Purple Hyacinth Bean is a fast-growing vine that can quickly cover a large area. It's a good choice for adding vertical interest, color, and even edible options to your landscape.