Purple LabLab aka Hyacinth Bean

Family: Papilionaceae (pa-pil-ee-uh-NAY-see-ee) (Info)
Genus: Lablab (LAB-lab) (Info)
Species: purpureus (pur-PUR-ee-us) (Info)

Synonym:Dolichos lablab

For some reason I'm enamored of the Hyacinth Bean.  I've grown it once and it was stellar.  Fast, pretty flowers, interesting fruit.  I'm not interested in eating any part of it, but according to EatTheWeeds:


The leaves are more than 28% protein, 12% fiber, 7% minerals and 7% fat, eaten freshed or dried. They are an excellent source of iron and magnesium as well as a good source of phosphorus, zinc, copper, and thiamin. Beyond that, sprouts are edible and the cooked root is full of edible starch.


There's controversy about whether the seeds are edible, so do some research and decide for yourself.  The general consensus seems to be that they are, if they are prepared correctly to leech out the toxins.  Again, EatTheWeeds has a good discussion.


I just like the purple and green!  It's on my list for this year - anyone have seeds to share?

Category:
Annuals
Vines and Climbers


Height:
4-6 ft. (1.2-1.8 m)
6-8 ft. (1.8-2.4 m)
8-10 ft. (2.4-3 m)
10-12 ft. (3-3.6 m)
12-15 ft. (3.6-4.7 m)


Spacing:
9-12 in. (22-30 cm)


Hardiness:
Not Applicable


Sun Exposure:
Full Sun


Danger:
Seed is poisonous if ingested


Bloom Color:
Purple


Bloom Time:
Mid Summer
Late Summer/Early Fall
Mid Fall


Foliage:
Grown for foliage
Blue-Green
Aromatic
Smooth-Textured


Other details:
This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and/or birds
Flowers are fragrant
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater
Self-sows freely; deadhead if you do not want volunteer seedlings next season


Soil pH requirements:
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline)


Patent Information:
Non-patented


Propagation Methods:
From seed; sow indoors before last frost
From seed; direct sow after last frost
From seed; germinate in a damp paper towel


Seed Collecting:
Allow pods to dry on plant; break open to collect seeds