Skip to content
Skip to main content
PatternBase

Purple Bushbean

Macroptilium purpureum, Fabaceae

Zones
9–12
Layer
Ground Cover
Lifespan
Perennial
Growth
Fast

Guild Roles

Nitrogen FixerGround CoverMulch Maker

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)Partial Shade (tolerated)

Water

Moderate (established)High (seedling)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought
Frost
Heat
Pest Resistance
Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Velvet CalopogoniumCalopogonium velutinum
Nitrogen FixationPhysical Support
Scarlet GlobemallowSphaeralcea coccinea
Nitrogen FixationPollinator Sharing
Brazilian pencilflowerStylosanthes capitata
Pollinator SharingBeneficial Insect Habitat
White fonioDigitaria exilis
Nitrogen FixationPhysical Support

Antagonistic Plants

Asparagus BeanDolichos sesquipedalis

Both vigorous climbing legumes compete aggressively for support structures and light

Uses

Functions

Nitrogen FixationLiving MulchErosion ControlSoil ImprovementForage Production

Common Questions

What zones does Purple Bushbean grow in?

Purple Bushbean grows in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 12.

Is Purple Bushbean a nitrogen fixer?

Yes, Purple Bushbean is a nitrogen fixer and can help provide nitrogen to neighboring plants in a guild or polyculture.

What are good companion plants for Purple Bushbean?

Good companions for Purple Bushbean include Velvet Calopogonium, Scarlet Globemallow, Brazilian pencilflower, White fonio.

Design guilds with Purple Bushbean and see companion relationships visually.

Try PatternBase free