Hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus)

Also known as: Lablab, Bonavist bean, Bataw, Banner bean, Seim bean, Papaya bean, Butter bean, Lubia bean

The hyacinth bean (*Lablab purpureus*) is a versatile legume that can grow either as an annual or a short-lived perennial during the summer. This herbaceous plant is known for its ability to twine, climb, trail, or grow upright. In the tropics, its young seeds, pods, and leaves are commonly consumed. However, the mature, dry beans must be properly cooked to eliminate potential toxicity.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Hyacinth bean

Lifespan

Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Vine, Herb

Plant Height

6 m

Spread

50 cm to 1 m

Leaf Color

Green Purple

Flower Size

1.2 cm to 1.6 cm

Flower Color

White Purple Pink

Images of Hyacinth bean

Quickly Identify Hyacinth bean

Vibrant purple peapods distinguish hyacinth bean, adding a striking visual aspect.

Fragrant flowers in bilateral symmetry, varying in colors of white, pink, and purple.

Smooth, flat seedpods measuring 2-4 inches (5-10 cm), with diverse seed colors.

Pinnately divided leaves with three egg-shaped leaflets, 3-6 inches (7.6-15.2 cm) long.

Robust, purplish stems reaching 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) in length, covered in fine hairs.

Scientific Classification of Hyacinth bean

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Lablab

Species

Hyacinth bean

Planting and Growing of Hyacinth bean

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Hyacinth bean?

For Lablab purpureus, a consistent watering regime is key. Water about 250 ml per session, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not soggy. The goal is to allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, preventing both drought stress and root rot.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Hyacinth bean?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Partial to full sunlight is optimal for maximizing growth and flowering. Full sun supports photosynthesis and energy absorption, crucial for this sun-loving species.

What is the best light condition? ›

How to achieve ideal light conditions? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Hyacinth bean?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 85℉

The ideal temperature range for Lablab purpureus, also known as hyacinth bean, is between 65°F and 85°F. This temperature range helps ensure optimal growth and development, allowing the plant to efficiently photosynthesize and absorb nutrients. Temperatures within this range provide an environment that closely mimics its native habitat, promoting strong vegetative growth and flower production.

What Soil is Best for Hyacinth bean?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Lablab purpureus thrives in well-draining soil, which prevents waterlogging and root rot. This requirement ensures healthy root systems and maximizes nutrient uptake for robust growth. The soil should be rich in organic matter to provide essential nutrients. Enriched soil supports vigorous growth and improves the plant’s resilience against pests and diseases. While drainage is critical, the soil should retain moderate moisture to keep the plant hydrated, particularly during dry spells. Proper moisture levels facilitate consistent growth and flowering.

How to Fertilize Hyacinth bean?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Lablab purpureus thrives with moderate fertilization. Use approximately 10 grams of balanced fertilizer per square meter during active growing seasons. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can damage the plant's roots.

How to Prune Hyacinth bean?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by identifying dead, diseased, or damaged stems and trim them using a pair of sharp, sterile pruners. Next, focus on shaping the plant by cutting back overly long stems to promote a bushier appearance. Make cuts just above a leaf node to encourage new growth. Always prune in the direction you want the vine to grow. For more flower blooms, ensure to pinch off any spent flowers and trim back about one-third of the overall length of the vines. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Hyacinth bean plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Fill the seed tray with a quality soil mix, lightly patting down the soil to remove air pockets. Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy before sowing the seeds.

Scatter the seeds evenly across the soil surface in the seed tray. Cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite to help retain moisture and warmth, crucial for germination.

Place the tray in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Maintain a consistent humidity by lightly misting the soil when it begins to dry out. A plastic cover can help maintain humidity levels.

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How to Repot Hyacinth bean plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Lablab purpureus should be repotted when you notice that the roots have started to circle the pot or poke out of the drainage holes. These signs often indicate that the plant has outgrown its current home and needs more space to thrive. Typically, early spring is the best time to undertake this task as the plant is just beginning its new growth cycle.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A slightly larger pot ensures that the plant has more room to grow without overwhelming its root system, promoting healthy expansion and development.

Choose a well-draining rich loam soil that can retain some moisture but dries out fairly quickly. This type of soil is perfect for Lablab purpureus as it provides the necessary nutrients while ensuring that the roots are not sitting in water, preventing common issues like root rot.

Toxicity of Hyacinth bean

Is Hyacinth bean toxic to humans?

The hyacinth bean contains toxic characteristics that can be detrimental to humans if consumed. Symptoms usually tend to be mild. The beans contain glucoside, which renders them poisonous to humans, particularly when ingested in significant quantities. Consuming the beans can lead to respiratory difficulties, vomiting, convulsions, and even seizures. These decorative plants are commonly used in gardens, which makes them easily accessible. Children are particularly at risk, as they may unknowingly eat the beans, unaware of their toxic properties.

Is Hyacinth bean toxic to cat?

The hyacinth bean presents a moderate level of toxicity to cats if consumed. The main way in which cats can become poisoned is by ingesting the toxic components, particularly the seeds of the hyacinth bean plant. Following ingestion, cats may display symptoms of physical distress or sickness, making it imperative to seek immediate care. Cat owners must remain alert and pursue prompt veterinary assistance if they suspect their pets have ingested hyacinth bean, as timely medical intervention can be vital for their recovery.

Is Hyacinth bean toxic to dog?

The hyacinth bean plant species presents a moderate risk of toxicity to dogs. If canines consume parts of the plant, they can become poisoned, especially from ingesting the seeds, which are highly toxic. Following ingestion, dogs may show symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of energy. Therefore, it is crucial for dog owners to remain alert and ensure that their pets do not have access to or consume any portions of the hyacinth bean, with a particular emphasis on the seeds. Should a dog ingest this plant, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary assistance to guarantee appropriate treatment and management of any possible poisoning.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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