Canavalia Rosea(Maritima)- 5 baybeans Jackbeack Fast Growing Grouncover Plant

Canavalia Rosea (Maritima)

5 Baybeans

Canavalia Rosea, also known as Baybean or Jackbean, is a fast-growing beach-dwelling vine from various coastal regions of the world, including the Gulf of Mexico and various coasts of Australia. Growing to over 20 feet in length, this species has thick leaves designed to lock in moisture in sub-tropical heat. The eye-catching blooms of this curious plant are pinkish purple, giving it ornamental appeal for those interested in growing new species. It is an excellent groundcover plant, suitable for even poor soils. The beans themselves are large and decorative with craft potential. Individual beans have even been discovered in ancient graves located in parts of Mexico and Peru, although the exact significance is not clear. Some sources indicate that they were associated with magic rituals. Baybeans are edible, but mature seeds have a very thick seed coat, which allow the seed to float and be carried off in ocean currents. Mature seeds must be boiled or roasted before they can be eaten while immature seeds are more manageable. Additionally, baybean has been used for a number of medicinal applications including the treatment of skin ailments, colds, pain and rheumatism. The seeds themselves can be drilled to make interesting beads.

Growing information: Baybean has a very tough outer seed coat and can be very stubborn to germinate. We emphasize this, because many beans tend to be easy to germinate. A sandy soil is recommended. A mix of 40% beach sand to 60% black soil is suitable. We have found that it might be best to scarify the seeds before planting. To do this, you'll want to file or sand through the outer lyer of the seed in one spot so water can enter the seed. We are also told that it is best to water with rainwater daily until the seeds sprout. Sow the seed so the top of the seed is at the soil level and provide plenty of warmth. Once the seed sprouts, it is best to water every third day. The roots will travel deeply into the soil and cover a large area. It tends to invade the spacess of other plants f not given ample room to grow. The plant is very hardy, but it should be protected from frost.