If you've been to the restored gardens and farm of Thomas Jefferson in Virginia, then you'll know this as "the legend of Monticello's bean arbor." Jefferson constructed this colossal extravagance to grow and enjoy this beautiful, free-spirited annual. More vigorous and adventurous in its growth habit than the Scarlet Runner Bean, the Hyacinth Bean produces large spiked clusters of bi-colored lavender/white flowers which are held out and above the foliage on long, straight stems. Mature pods are a lovely purple, and the seeds are an interesting chocolate brown with a white lobe. ." Warning: The dry seeds of this bean contain cyanogenic glucosides in toxic amounts. Asian cooks treat the seeds to remove the toxins, but unless you are very familiar with the process, it is best not to eat them. 12 seeds PLANTING Dolichos lablab Annual Germination: 10-15 days Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-75ºF. Seed Planting Depth: Sow 1” deep, soaking seeds overnight aids the germination Starting Indoors: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75ºF soil temperatures until germination. Transplant 12” apart after the last frost Sowing Outdoors: Direct sow after the last frost, only in areas with long growing seasons Growth Habit: Climbing Height and Width: 10 feet Spacing: 12” apart Light Needs: Full sun Soil Needs: Average to fertile, well-drained Approximate days to flower from seed: Blooms in 100-115 days Uses: Cut flowers, privacy screen- climbing and covering trellises, arbors, fences, and poles Care: Water seedlings regularly until established. Low maintenance, minimal care required.
