Hyacinth Bean - Key Growing Information
SOWING: Transplant: Sow 4-6 weeks before last frost. Plant 2 seeds 1/2" deep in individual containers. Thin to one plant per pot, leaving the strongest, most purple seedling. Harden off and transplant outside after the last frost. Direct seed: after last frost, sow about 6 seeds per foot, 1/2" deep. When the seedlings have true leaves, thin to 12" apart. Trellis or other form of support is necessary.
LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Moderately fertile soil.
PLANT SPACING: 12".
HARDINESS ZONES: Zones 9-10.
HARVEST: Fresh: Harvest when 80% of flowers on stem are open.
Pods: When 1/2 on stem are shiny and firm to touch.
Edible flowers: Harvest when flowers are fully open.
USES: Cut flower. Seeds, young leaves, and flowers are completely edible. Quick cover for arbors, walls, fences, and trellises.
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Dolichos lablab
ALTERNATE NAMES: Bonavist-bean, lablab-bean