Mucuna pruriens
TAXONOMY
FamilyFabaceae
GenusMucuna
Zone10
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Mucuna pruriens, commonly known as velvet bean, is a climbing perennial or shrub in the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical regions and is known for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. The plant produces clusters of purple flowers and pods covered in velvety hairs that can cause severe itching upon contact. It is often used in traditional medicine and as a cover crop.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Carpogon Capitatus
Carpogon Niveus
Marcanthus Cochinchinense
Stizolobium Pruritum
Velvet Bean
Carpopogon pruriens
Dolichos pruriens
Hornera pruriens
Labradia pruriens
Mucuna cochinchinense
Mucuna prurita
Negretia pruriens
Stizolobium pruriens
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
GDD2,700
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Mucuna pruriens thrives in wet tropical climates with bright, direct sunlight. It prefers moderate to warm temperatures and high humidity. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moist. The plant can be grown outdoors in suitable climates and requires support for its climbing habit.Harvest
Mucuna pruriens, commonly known as velvet bean, is typically harvested when the pods are fully mature and dry, which usually occurs around 180 days after planting. The pods should be carefully picked by hand to avoid damaging the plant and to minimize contact with the irritating hairs on the pods. It is advisable to wear gloves and protective clothing during harvest. After harvesting, the pods should be dried further if necessary, and the beans can be extracted by threshing. Proper drying and storage are essential to prevent mold and maintain seed viability.Soil
Mucuna pruriens prefers well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season to support its vigorous growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers and pods.Repotting
Repot Mucuna pruriens when it outgrows its container or if the soil becomes compacted. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fresh, well-draining soil. Handle the plant carefully to avoid contact with the irritating hairs on the pods.Propagation
Mucuna pruriens can be propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist until germination. The best time to propagate is during the warm growing season. Provide support for the young plants as they grow.Pruning
Prune Mucuna pruriens to control its size and shape. Remove any dead or damaged stems and trim back excessive growth to encourage bushier growth. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season as needed.Toxicity
Mucuna pruriens is toxic to pets and humans. The pods and seeds contain L-DOPA, which can be harmful if ingested. The hairs on the pods can cause severe itching and irritation upon contact. Handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets.Additional
Mucuna pruriens is often used in traditional medicine for its various health benefits. It is also used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility due to its nitrogen-fixing ability. The plant can be invasive in some regions, so it is important to manage its growth and prevent it from spreading uncontrollably.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
