Winged bean - Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images, Edible)

Winged bean

Also known as: Wing bean, Princess bean, Four-angled bean

Winged bean is a common climbing legume found throughout the tropics and subtropics. Its true native range is unknown, though it likely originated in Africa. The seeds, pods, young shoots, flowers, and roots are all edible and can regularly be found at markets wherever winged bean plants are grown.

Scientific classification

Species

Winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Vine

Plant Type

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Late summer, Fall

Harvest Time

2.5 m

Plant Height

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Winged bean

Distribution Map

Winged bean, a leguminous plant, is naturally distributed in tropical African and Asian regions. It has also been introduced and cultivated across various parts of Asia, Southeast Asia, the Pacific, and tropical regions of Africa and the Americas. Its presence spans major ecological zones conducive to its growth, underscoring its adaptability and expanding cultivation status.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Humid lowland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Winged bean

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Winged bean thrives in high humidity typical of tropical rainforests, prefers balanced watering with weekly irrigation, and exhibits moderate drought tolerance. As an evergreen, it requires consistent soil moisture to support year-round leaf retention and growth.

Fertilize: Use high phosphorus fertilizers at planting for winged bean to promote roots, then switch to balanced nutrition every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Monitor soil and plant performance to adjust application rates, reducing in cooler months. Always follow safety guidelines to avoid over-fertilization.

Propagation: Winged bean is a nutrient-rich legume that thrives in tropical climates. Pre-soak seeds before sowing in well-drained soil at a depth three times the seed size. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth for optimal germination in one to two weeks. Provide climbing support as it matures.

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