Bean- Lab Lab Highworth Seeds

Lab Lab Bean – Highworth (Lablab purpureus)

The 'Highworth' variety of Lab Lab Bean, also known as Hyacinth Bean, is a vigorous annual or biennial climber, depending on the climate. Originating from southern India, this cultivar has been cultivated since 1973. It is recognized for its robust growth, making it an excellent choice for ground cover and green manure, as it contributes substantial organic matter and nitrogen to the soil. 'Highworth' matures earlier than the 'Rongai' variety, features black seeds, and produces attractive purple flowers.

Culinary and Forage Uses:

• Forage: The plant is highly palatable as forage, offering a protein content of approximately 26%.
• Young Pods: When young, the pods are edible if cooked.
• Flowers: The flowers have a delightful flavour and are best enjoyed raw in salads.
• Mature Seeds: Mature seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides and must be thoroughly boiled before consumption to eliminate these compounds.

Cultivation Requirements:

• Sunlight: Thrives in sunny locations.
• Soil: Adaptable to various soil types, from poor sandy soils to heavy clays, provided they are well-drained.
• Drought Tolerance: Equipped with a deep taproot system, lablab beans can access water from depths of up to 2 meters, enhancing their drought resilience and enabling growth during dry periods.
• Flooding: While they can tolerate short-term flooding, they are susceptible to prolonged waterlogging and poor drainage conditions.

By adhering to these guidelines, gardeners and farmers can effectively cultivate the 'Highworth' lablab bean, benefiting from its versatility as both a food source and a soil-enhancing cover crop.

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