Mucuna macrocarpa, the long-fruited mucuna, is a vigorous, woody vine with striking purple flowers and exceptionally large seed pods, native to Southeast Asia.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct, harsh sun, which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging. Reduce in cooler months.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and sudden temperature drops.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering in cooler months when the plant's growth slows down.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, which this species is susceptible to.
Prune to maintain shape and size, and to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This can be done after flowering or in late winter before new growth begins.
Pinching back young shoots can encourage bushier growth.
Propagate from seeds, which require scarification or soaking to aid germination. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood in summer, but success rates may vary. Ensure a warm and humid environment for best results.
Repot young plants annually in spring, and mature plants every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Long-Fruited Mucuna (Mucuna macrocarpa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Mucuna |
| Species | Mucuna macrocarpa |
Similar in genus Mucuna
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
