Ruby Moon Hyacinth Bean (Dolichos purpureus) Also known as Lablab or Bonavist Bean, this legume species is native to sub-Saharan Africa and India. A beautiful vining species with dark foliage and stunning lilac-rose coloured flowers which develop into shiny magenta seed pods. Leaves, flowers and pods can be used in floral design work. Ruby Moon blooms appear for most of the growing season right up to the first frost. Flowers can be eaten fresh or steamed and seeds are edible if boiled twice before eaten. This is a hummingbird and butterfly favourite that can also function as a beautiful privacy screen when trellised on a porch or balcony. Grown as an annual in our zone 5 gardens, otherwise a soft perennial in Zone 8 +.
Days to Maturity: 110-120 days for full pods
15 seeds per packet $4.45
Planting Instructions: Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost date. Soak seeds overnight (Scarification will also help germination) and sow 1/2-3/4" deep in growing mix, then place in warm location with full light. Transplant very carefully once night temps are consistently above 10°C. Space seedlings 6 to 8 inches apart. Avoid disturbing roots as much as possible when transplanting. We suggest starting the seeds in a 2" peat pot that can be directly planted. This is a climbing vine that will require trellising. Can also be directly sown 10-14 days after last frost date. Pre-soak seeds overnight and sow 1/2" deep at 8" intervals.
Caution: Mature seeds must be boiled before eating since they contain a trypsin inhibitor that will break down by heat as well as a cyanogenic glucoside that is leached out by the cooking water. Boil twice to ensure!
