Marama Bean

Marama Bean, scientifically known as Tylosema esculentum, is a perennial plant native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Angola, Botswana, Cape Provinces, Namibia, Northern Provinces, and Zimbabwe. This hardy plant thrives in full sun and prefers light (sandy) or medium soils, growing up to 1 meter tall. Marama Bean is known for its edible roots and seeds, which are a valuable food source in the region. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to store water in its fleshy roots, making it well-adapted to survive in harsh environments. The plant is also useful as a ground cover and can be propagated through seeds, which have a viability of 3-5 years. While Marama Bean is not medicinal, its edible parts make it a valuable resource in its native regions. Its hardiness and drought-resistant nature make it a suitable choice for gardens in temperate regions, specifically zones 10-12.