Mung Bean
Vigna radiatafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 971B — Vigna radiata
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IOverview
Overview
Mung Bean (Vigna radiata) is an annual forb or herb that thrives in a variety of habitats across Asia and Australia, from the West Himalayas to Western Australia. Native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, India, Laos, Myanmar, and parts of China, this plant has been cultivated for its edible seeds, leaves, and seedpods. Preferring light to partial shade with well-draining soil that is neither too dry nor overly moist, mung beans grow up to 0.8 meters tall in a range of soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils. They flourish best in a pH between 6 and 6.9, making them adaptable to various growing conditions while requiring full or partial sun exposure.
Quick answers
What is Mung Bean?
Mung Bean (Vigna radiata) is an annual forb or herb that thrives in a variety of habitats across Asia and Australia, from the West Himalayas to Western Australia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mung Beans thrive in full to partial sun and prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6 and 6.9. They are hardy in temperate regions (zone 10-12) and grow best in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. These beans require moist conditions but can tolerate dry spells. For propagation, sow the seeds directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. Mung Beans are annual plants that reach a height of 0.8 meters and produce edible leaves, seedpods, and seeds.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.8 m tall
Soil pH
6–6.9
- Seed viability
- 3-5 years
For first-time growers
How to grow Mung Bean for the first time
8steps
Start with simple soil and basic care for a successful mung bean crop.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, a container or garden bed, potting mix if using containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the soil is warm and all danger of frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6 and 6.9, or add compost for better drainage if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in rows spaced about 30 cm apart; thin to 5 cm apart after germination.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged, and provide partial shade if direct sunlight is too intense.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and mulch to retain moisture. Fertilize lightly with compost every few weeks.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any dead leaves or stems to encourage new growth; harvest pods when they turn yellow and start drying out.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, not providing enough support for vines.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeedSeedpod
Edible uses: The mung bean (Vigna radiata) is widely consumed for its leaves, seeds, and seedpods. The young pods are often eaten raw or cooked in stir-fries, soups, and salads. The beans themselves can be boiled, sprouted, or used to make flour. SKIP
Other uses:Cover cropSoap makingNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
17 native · 13 introduced
Distribution
17 native · 13 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 17 native· 13 introduced
Asia11 regions
native (10)BangladeshIndiaLaosMyanmarPakistanSri LankaTaiwanThailandVietnamYemen
introduced (1)China
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Honduras
Africa3 regions
introduced (3)BeninMadagascarMalawi
Broader regions
native:Northern Territory, Queensland, Lesser Sunda Is., Western Australia, West Himalaya, New South Wales
introduced:Christmas I., Jawa, Kirgizstan, Malaya, Hainan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 971ba577-bea3-46e4-ae55-a2dbc5bab4b7
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