Hyacinth Bean
Lablab purpureus
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Pl. 1227 — Lablab purpureus
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IOverview
Overview
Hyacinth Bean (Lablab purpureus) is a perennial vine and forb/herb native to parts of Africa including Angola, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Cape Provinces, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Eritrea, and others. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 9-11 and grows to a height of 2 meters. Hyacinth Bean is known for its edible parts, which include flowers, leaves, roots, seeds, and seedpods. Its native range spans across several African countries, making it a versatile addition to gardens or agricultural settings. One distinctive feature of this plant is its vibrant purple-pink flowers that attract pollinators, while another is the large, bean-like seeds that can be harvested for consumption.
Quick answers
What is Hyacinth Bean?
Hyacinth Bean (Lablab purpureus) is a perennial vine and forb/herb native to parts of Africa including Angola, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Cape Provinces, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Eritrea, and others. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Hyacinth Bean thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 9-11 and grows as a perennial vine up to 2 meters tall. Propagate via seed directly sown into the garden after the last frost. This plant is versatile, with edible parts including flowers, leaves, roots, seeds, and seedpods. Ensure soil pH ranges between 4.5 and 7.8 for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
9-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Vine, Forb/herb
Mature size
2.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.5–7.8
- Seed viability
- 3-5 years
For first-time growers
How to grow Hyacinth Bean for the first time
8steps
Start with easy-to-grow Hyacinth Beans for a rewarding beginner gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, a garden trowel, and a trellis or support structure.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when soil temperatures are above 15°C (60°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun, loosen the soil to a depth of 30 cm (12 inches), and ensure good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 5-7 cm (2-3 inches) deep and 15 cm (6 inches) apart. Provide support for climbing.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist, water regularly but avoid overwatering. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil is dry, fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Prune to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead or damaged vines. Harvest pods when they turn brown.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too early in cold soil, not providing support for climbing, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesRootSeedSeedpod
Edible uses: Hyacinth beans are versatile and can be eaten in various forms. The flowers, leaves, roots, seeds, and seedpods are all edible. They are typically prepared by cooking, though the pods may also be eaten raw or dried. Seeds can be roasted or boiled before consumption.
Other uses:Animal feedCover cropNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)India
Africa24 regions
native (24)BeninBotswanaCabo VerdeCameroonCôte d'IvoireEritreaEswatiniEthiopiaGabonGambiaGhanaKenyaMadagascarMozambiqueNamibiaNigeriaRwandaSenegalSierra LeoneSudanTanzaniaTogoUgandaZambia
Broader regions
native:KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Cape Provinces, Central African Repu, Zaïre
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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