Velvet Bean

Mucuna pruriens, Fabaceae

Zones

9a–11b

Layer

Vine

Lifespan

Annual

Growth

Fast

Guild Roles

Ground CoverNitrogen Fixer

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (optimal)Partial Sun (tolerated)

Water

LowModerate

Soil pH

5 – 7

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

MalangaXanthosoma sagittifolium

Nitrogen FixationPhysical Support

RiceOryza sativa

Nitrogen FixationPest Deterrent

True YamDioscorea rotundata

Nitrogen FixationPest Deterrent

Gac FruitMomordica cochinchinensis

Nitrogen FixationPest Deterrent

Ridge GourdLuffa acutangula

Nitrogen FixationPest Deterrent

Ivy GourdCoccinia grandis

Nitrogen FixationPest Deterrent

Antagonistic Plants

Sword BeanCanavalia gladiata

Velvet bean produces strong allelopathic compounds that can inhibit other legumes including sword bean

Uses

Functions

Nitrogen FixationFoodMedicine

Edible Parts

Seeds

Common Questions

What zones does Velvet Bean grow in?

Velvet Bean grows in USDA hardiness zones 9a through 11b.

Is Velvet Bean a nitrogen fixer?

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

What are good companion plants for Velvet Bean?

Good companions for Velvet Bean include Malanga, Rice, True Yam, Gac Fruit, Ridge Gourd.

Design guilds with Velvet Bean and see companion relationships visually.

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