

Instead, they are best enjoyed as ornamental plants in the landscape. When to Pick Purple Hyacinth Bean Seed PodsĪlthough purple hyacinth beans are used as a forage crop in some parts of the world, they are not recommended for eating, as they have to be cooked in a very particular way. Provide regular water for transplants and seedlings for best results. Once planted, these low-maintenance plants require very little care. Transplants are best when planted on the small side. Seeds can also be started indoors several weeks before the weather warms. Seeds can be sown directly outdoors once the threat of frost has passed. Many gardeners grow this lovely vine on a sturdy trellis, fence, or arbor. These vigorous growers do require a sturdy support that is at least 10 to 15 feet (3-4.5 m.) high.
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Purple hyacinth beans are not fussy about soil type but do best when planted in full sun.

These fabulous heirloom plants are now featured at Monticello in the Colonial kitchen garden. Because of this, the hyacinth bean is also known as Jefferson bean. Thomas Jefferson’s favorite nurseryman Bernard McMahon sold hyacinth bean vine plants to Jefferson in 1804. The hyacinth bean plant adds loads of color and interest to any garden right through fall. A vigorous, ornamental, annual vine, purple hyacinth bean plant ( Dolichos lablab or Lablab purpurea), displays beautiful, pinkish-purple blossoms and interesting, reddish-purple pods that grow to be about the same size as lima bean pods.
