HYACINTH BEAN VINE Dolichos lablab Neither hyacinth nor a true bean. It is a warm weather loving, fast growing, ornamental climber. Its fragrant 1 1/2 inch purple blossoms are borne above its dark veined, green leaves. The flowers gradually give way to dark, 3 to 4 inch long beans. Special Directions for Short Season Climates SOWING: Sow seeds indoors in individual peat pots two to three weeks before planting outside. Seeds can be sown directly outdoors well after last frost and weather has warmed considerably. Cover seeds with 3/4 inch fine soil firmed down. SPACING and TRANSPLANTING: Carefully thin young seedlings or transplant individual peat pots to about a foot apart, after hardening off. Individual seedlings do not transplant well. GERMINATION: 1 to 2 weeks depending upon soil warmth. Keep soil moderately moist during germination. Ed's Special Advice Select a sunny location with fairly rich well drained soil. Provide sturdy trellis support, plant can climb 10 feet or more. Water occasionally at base of plant. Ideal for growing on arbors or fences. Hyacinth bean combines well with other annual climbers such as thunbergia, morning glory and canary bird vine. Do not plant too early, hyacinth bean is a tropical plant and will not tolerate cold weather. Return to:  Seed Rack   Visual Seed Rack