Lablab purpureus 'Ruby Moon'
hyacinth bean (syn. Dolichos)
- approx 10 seeds
- £3.79
- In stock (shipped within 3-5 working days)
Delivery options
- Seed Packets (only) £2.95
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moist, but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: fast
- Flowering: June to September
- Hardiness: tender (will need winter protection)
A fast-growing, tender, twining perennial climber, often grown as a summer annual, with dark purple-green leaves and fragrant, purple or white pea-like flower spires, followed by edible green pods often flushed with purple. Suitable for a tall wigwam or sheltered wall for sub-tropical glamour, or as a climbing plant for a warm conservatory or glasshouse.
Ensure consistent watering during dry spells as Lablab prefers a moist, but not wet, soil. When transplanting outdoors, select a sunny spot sheltered sheltered from cold winds, ideally on a south facing wall, within a conservatory, or cold greenhouse due to its long growing season requirements. Although initial training may be necessary to reach support, this low-maintenance vine thrives with minimal care once established. Protect from frost if overwintering.
Soak seeds for several hours prior to sowing. Sow indoors into moist seed compost at 68-86°F (20-30°C) and do not exclude light. Germination can take 1-2 weeks. Transplant into larger pots and harden off before planting out once the danger of frost has passed.