Different species of hyacinth bean, Hyacinth beans (Lablab purpureus) are known for their unique, colorful appearance and versatility in gardens around the world. This plant is admired not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its edible beans and flowers, which add both beauty and function to gardens. Among the varieties of hyacinth beans, there are notable differences in appearance, growth habits, and care needs. Here, we’ll delve into three popular varieties: the Purple Hyacinth Bean, Curly Hyacinth Bean, and Longer Hyacinth Bean, providing insights into their description, growing methods, care, and harvesting techniques.
1. Purple Hyacinth Bean
Description
The Purple Hyacinth Bean is perhaps the most well-known variety, admired for its striking purple hues. The leaves, flowers, and pods of this plant all exhibit a deep, rich purple color, creating a vibrant contrast against green foliage. The flowers are often lavender to violet, which mature into dark purple pods. This variety can reach heights of up to 15 feet when given support, making it an excellent choice for trellises or garden arches. Purple hyacinth bean recipe is curry, bean fry.
How to grow purple hyacinth bean vine
Purple Hyacinth Beans are easy to cultivate. They thrive in warm climates and are typically planted in spring after the last frost. Select an ideal, sun-drenched location with rich, well-drained soil to ensure vigorous growth. Sow seeds directly into the ground, spacing them 6-12 inches apart, and cover lightly with soil. These beans prefer a temperature of 70-85°F for optimal growth and germination typically occurs within 7-14 days.
How to care for purple hyacinth
Purple Hyacinth Beans are relatively low-maintenance. They thrive with consistent watering, especially during dry spells, ensuring the soil stays moist without becoming oversaturated. Applying a layer of mulch around the base locks in essential moisture, giving the plants a strong foundation to flourish. This variety benefits from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer. Providing a sturdy support structure is essential, as these beans are vigorous climbers.
How to Harvest purple beans
To harvest Purple Hyacinth Beans, wait until the pods are plump and firm. They can be picked for consumption or as seeds. Harvesting for eating should be done while the beans are young and tender, whereas seed-saving requires allowing the pods to mature and dry on the vine. Always remember that raw beans should be cooked thoroughly before consumption, as they contain compounds that are toxic if ingested uncooked. Click here to purchase best quality Purple Hyacinth Bean seeds.
2. Curly Hyacinth Bean
Description
The Curly Hyacinth Bean is distinguished by its unique pod shape, which curls as it matures. The twisted, spiraling pods give this plant an ornamental appeal, making it a favorite in decorative gardens. The flowers are typically purple, with pods ranging from green to purple as they mature. This variety is slightly smaller than the Purple Hyacinth Bean, often reaching a height of 8-10 feet.
How to Grow
Growing Curly Hyacinth Beans is similar to other varieties. Kickstart growth by sowing seeds in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil under ample sunlight. Seeds should be spaced about 8 inches apart and lightly covered with soil. This variety prefers temperatures of 65-80°F for optimal growth. Germination can take 7-10 days, depending on soil warmth and moisture levels. Curly Hyacinth Beans tend to be fast-growing, so it’s beneficial to provide support early.
How to Care
Curly Hyacinth Beans require moderate care. Consistent watering is crucial, especially during intense dry spells. This variety can tolerate some drought, but will perform best with consistent moisture. Fertilizing with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every month can encourage lush foliage and vibrant blooms. Support structures are essential due to its climbing nature, and pruning can help manage excessive growth and shape the plant.
How to Harvest Hyacinth Beans
Harvesting Curly Hyacinth Beans involves picking the pods when they are still tender and before they curl too tightly. This usually occurs when the pods are around 3-5 inches long. To harvest seeds, let the pods ripen fully and dry completely on the vine for maximum potency. These beans also need to be cooked before consumption due to their naturally occurring toxins. Click here to purchase best quality Dolichos Bean Seeds.
3. Longer Hyacinth Bean
Description
The Longer Hyacinth Bean is known for its elongated pods, which can grow up to 6-8 inches in length. Unlike the other varieties, this plant features more slender, elongated beans, often light green with a subtle hint of purple as they mature. This bean is also a climber and can reach heights of 12-15 feet, making it a striking presence in any garden.
Hyacinth bean growing
Growing the Longer Hyacinth Bean involves choosing a sunny, well-drained location and planting seeds directly into the ground. This variety requires more space due to its extended pod length, so seeds should be spaced 12 inches apart. They thrive in temperatures of 70-85°F. With a slightly longer germination period, these beans typically sprout within 10-14 days. Supporting structures like trellises are necessary for the vines to grow to their full potential.
How to Care
The Longer Hyacinth Bean requires regular watering to prevent soil from drying out, especially during warm periods. This variety also benefits from a monthly application of a balanced fertilizer to promote pod growth and flowering. Pruning can help manage the height and prevent the plant from becoming overly dense. Regular inspection for pests, like aphids or beetles, is recommended, as this variety is susceptible to insect infestations.
When to pick hyacinth beans
To harvest Longer Hyacinth Beans, pick the pods when they are young and tender for the best flavor. If left on the vine, the beans will continue to grow in length and eventually become tough and fibrous. For seed collection, allow the pods to dry completely on the vine before removing them. Similar to other hyacinth beans, these must be cooked before consuming to neutralize any toxins.
Summary
The Purple Hyacinth Bean, Curly Hyacinth Bean, and Longer Hyacinth Bean each offer unique characteristics, from color to shape and growth habits. While they share similarities in their growing and care requirements, each has its own distinct look and practical applications in the garden. The vibrant Purple Hyacinth Bean brings color, the Curly Hyacinth Bean adds ornamental value, and the Longer Hyacinth Bean offers extended harvest potential.
With the right knowledge of planting, care, and harvesting techniques, gardeners can enjoy the benefits of these three hyacinth bean varieties, whether for aesthetic pleasure, culinary use, or both.
