The Hyacinth Bean (Lablab purpureus, syn. Dolichos lablab L., Dolichos purpureus L., Lablab niger Medikus, Lablab lablab (L.) Lyons, Vigna aristata Piper, and Lablab vulgaris, L.) Savi. [1]), also called Indian Bean and Egyptian Bean, is a species of bean in the family Fabaceae that is widespread as a food crop throughout the tropics, especially in Africa. A traditional food plant in Africa, this little-known vegetable has potential to improve nutrition, boost food security, foster rural development and support sustainable landcare.[2]
Seeds of the purple hyacinth bean
The hyacinth bean grows as a vine, producing purple flowers and striking electric-purple coloured seed pods. Lablab bean is a good choice for a quick screen on a trellis or fence. It grows fast, has beautiful, fragrant flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds, and it even produces edible leaves, flowers, pods, seeds and roots. Dry pods and seeds are poisonous due to high concentrations of cyanogenic glucosides, and can only be eaten after prolonged boiling.
It is also grown as forage [3] and as an ornamental plant. [4] In addition, this plant is also cited as a medicinal plant and a poisonous plant. [5] [6]
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