How to Grow Lablab Bean
Lablab purpureus
Lablab bean is a vigorous tropical climber with striking purple flowers and glossy dark pods. Sow seeds in warm soil after all frost risk has passed, or start indoors 4 weeks early. Provide sturdy support — plants can reach 3 m. Harvest pods young for the table; leave some to dry for seed. As a legume it fixes nitrogen, so feed lightly. Frost kills it, so grow as an annual in temperate gardens.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 4 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 12°C and soil has warmed to at least 15°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light feed at planting. Avoid high nitrogen — as a legume it fixes its own. A balanced feed once pods begin forming is sufficient.
- A vigorous tropical climber producing ornamental purple flowers and glossy dark pods. Dual-purpose as both edible crop and garden ornamental. Needs a long warm season — start under cover in cooler climates.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 15°C+
- Germination temperature
- 18–30°C
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- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 60 cm |
| Sow depth | 3 cm |
| Mature height | 300 cm |
| Mature spread | 60 cm |
Climbing vine — provide a trellis, wigwam, or fence. Space plants 30 cm apart at the base.
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 15°C |
| Germination temperature | 18–30°C |
| Base growth temperature | 12°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | short day |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Lablab Bean?
- Plant Lablab Bean 30cm apart with 60cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Lablab Bean?
- Lablab Bean is ready to harvest approximately 65 days after transplanting.
- Is Lablab Bean frost hardy?
- Lablab Bean is classified as Tender.
