Lablab purpureus
TAXONOMY
FamilyFabaceae
GenusLablab
Zone10
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Lablab purpureus, commonly known as hyacinth bean, is a member of the Fabaceae family. It is native to Africa but is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. This plant can be an annual or perennial and is known for its scrambling growth habit. It produces attractive purple flowers and edible pods, making it a popular choice for both ornamental and agricultural purposes.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Hyacinth Bean
Dolichos purpureus
Lablab purpurea
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,350
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Lablab purpureus thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers warm temperatures. It can tolerate moderate humidity levels and requires regular watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. This plant is relatively easy to care for but does require some attention to its growing conditions to ensure optimal growth.Harvest
Lablab purpureus, commonly known as hyacinth bean, is typically harvested when the pods are young and tender, usually around 60-90 days after planting. To harvest, pick the pods by hand when they are about 2-3 inches long and before the seeds inside become too large. Regular harvesting encourages more pod production. If growing for dry beans, allow the pods to mature and dry on the plant before harvesting. Ensure to harvest before the first frost if grown in temperate regions.Soil
Lablab purpureus prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in fertile, well-drained soil. Ensure the soil is not waterlogged to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.Repotting
Repot Lablab purpureus when it outgrows its current container or if the soil becomes compacted. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh potting mix. Repotting is best done in the early growing season.Propagation
Lablab purpureus can be propagated by seeds. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep them moist until germination. The best time to propagate is in the spring or early summer when temperatures are warm.Pruning
Prune Lablab purpureus to control its growth and shape. Remove any dead or damaged stems and trim back excessive growth to encourage bushier growth. Pruning is best done in the early growing season.Toxicity
Lablab purpureus is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the raw seeds contain antinutritional factors and should be cooked before consumption to neutralize these compounds.Additional
Lablab purpureus is a versatile plant that can be used for ornamental purposes, as a cover crop, or for its edible pods and seeds. It is also known for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility for other plants.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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