(Lablab, Purpureus) What if you could have a gorgeous flowering vine that made a HUGE impact the first year? The generous clusters of blue and amethyst flowers resemble a delicate wisteria, only these are produced abundantly from midsummer to the frosty days of autumn. By August expect this to be a focal point in your garden: hundreds of flowers produced together with huge flat purple bean pods and colorful foliage.
Early to flower, this stunning summer-long bloomer attract butterflies and does well in the heat and humidity of full summer. Twining stems quickly climb a fence or trellis, trail across the ground for an attractive ground cover, or spill over container edges. Introduced into gardens from Egypt in 1818. Tolerates humid heat. Contains toxins; not recommended for eating.
Historical Notes: This ornamental vine is native to the tropical regions of Africa and is cultivated extensively in Asia and North Africa for its edible fruit pods, which, like the flowers, are highly ornamental. The hyacinth bean, also known as Egyptian and Indian bean, was introduced to European gardens by the early 1700s and was sold by American nurserymen by the early 19th century.
In 1812, Thomas Jefferson recorded planting "Arbor beans white, scarlet, crimson, purple. at the trees of the level on both sides of the terrasses, and on long walk of [kitchen] garden."1 Although Jefferson does not specifically cite this species, hyacinth bean was sold by his favorite nurseryman, Bernard McMahon, in 1804, and it is possible that Jefferson's "purple" bean was the Dolichos lablab.
~ growing ~
When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED.
2 to 3 weeks after your average last frost date, and when soil temperature is at least 65°F, ideally 70°–85°F.
When to Start Inside: Not recommended.
6 to 8 weeks before your average last frost date. Roots are sensitive to disturbance; use biodegradable pots that can be placed directly into the ground. Sow in pots 3-4 weeks before last frost. Cover in plastic until germination and keep at 65-75°F.
~ planting ~
Hardiness: Perennial in USDA zones 10 and warmer, usually grown as an annual
Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Bloom Period: Summer to frost
Attributes: Drought Tolerant, Good for Containers
