Water
Water consistently, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in cooler weather or when the plant is dormant.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Also known as Antaque · Australian Pea · Banner Bean
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus) is a fast-growing, twining vine producing attractive purple flowers and edible pods. It's a versatile ornamental and food crop.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and pod production.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season; reduce in cooler periods.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 20-30°C. Protect from frost; it is an annual in cooler climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season; avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Pods and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides and are toxic if eaten raw. All parts of the plant can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in cooler weather or when the plant is dormant.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of young plants to promote branching. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing stems.
Pruning after flowering can help direct energy towards seed production or prevent unwanted self-seeding.
Propagate primarily from seeds, which germinate readily. Soak seeds overnight before sowing directly into the ground after the last frost, or start them indoors a few weeks prior.
Scarifying the seed coat can also improve germination rates.
Young plants may need repotting annually into slightly larger containers. Mature plants are generally grown in the ground and do not require frequent repotting.
Ensure pots have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Hyacinth Bean (Lablab purpureus)
Where Hyacinth Bean (Lablab purpureus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lablab |
| Species | Lablab purpureus |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data