How to Grow Hyacinth Bean 'Ruby Moon'

How to Grow Hyacinth Bean 'Ruby Moon'

Hyacinth Bean 'Ruby Moon' (Dolichos lablab)

As a gardener, you simply must grow this hardy climber that boasts season-long color. The plant features striking purple stems and produces beautiful lilac-rose flowers that resemble peas. Once the blooms fade, the vine produces shiny magenta pods measuring around 2-3 inches, adding a unique, textural element to any bouquet.

This versatile climber is perfect for arbors, walls, fences, and trellises, providing a quick and attractive cover.

But that's not all - both the flowers and beans are edible, though it's best to boil the mature seeds twice before consuming.

Details:

Plant type: Tender Perennial

Height: 12-15 feet

Site: full sun

Days to maturity: 110-120 days

Plant spacing: 12”

Pinch: not necessary

Kids, Pets and Deer: non-toxic, deer resistant

How to Grow:

Transplant: Sow seed ½” deep  4-6 weeks before last frost into 4 inch pots; transplant after all danger of frost has passed. Provide a trellis or study support for vines to climb.

Direct seed: after last frost, sow about 6 seeds per foot ½” deep. 

Germination: 5-12 days at 65-70°F (18-21°C)


Where to plan: 

Plant in full sun in moderately fertile soil. 

Harvesting/Vase Life:

Harvest after the flowers have faded and beans have formed. Expect a vase life of 7-10 days. Flowers can be harvested fresh and used in salads and on top of cakes.

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