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Description
Canavalia Septentrionalis, commonly known as the Beach Bean, is a perennial vine that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the southeastern coast of the United States, including Florida, Georgia, and Texas, as well as the Caribbean and Central and South America. The plant has a sprawling growth habit and can reach up to 15 feet in length. It produces beautiful purple flowers and large bean pods that are edible when cooked.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Canavalia |
Appearance
The Beach Bean has a distinctive appearance with its large green leaves and purple flowers. The leaves are compound and consist of three leaflets that are ovate to oblong in shape. The flowers are a beautiful purple color and are produced in clusters. The plant produces large bean pods that are up to 8 inches long and 1 inch wide. The beans are a light brown color and have a slightly curved shape.
Care Guide
The Beach Bean is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in warm, sunny locations. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, it can tolerate short periods of drought.
- Fertilization: The Beach Bean does not require fertilizer, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a year to promote growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH.
- Sunlight: The Beach Bean prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11, but it can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Beach Bean is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Some common pests that may affect the plant include spider mites and aphids.
Habitat
The Beach Bean is commonly found in coastal regions, including beaches, dunes, and mangroves. It can also be found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and abandoned fields. The plant prefers sandy, well-drained soil and can tolerate salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Beach Bean be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its sprawling growth habit.
Q: Are the beans edible?
A: Yes, the beans are edible when cooked. They are high in protein and have a slightly sweet taste.
Q: Does the Beach Bean attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant is attractive to bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators.
Q: Is the Beach Bean invasive?
A: The plant can be invasive in some areas, so it is important to check with local authorities before planting it.
Related Plants
- Canavalia Ensiformis
- Canavalia Gladiata
- Canavalia Lineata
- Canavalia Maritima
References
- “Canavalia Septentrionalis.” Floridata. https://www.floridata.com/plant/190/
- “Beach Bean, Canavalia Septentrionalis.” Floridata. https://floridata.com/Plants/Fabaceae/Canavalia%20septentrionalis/457
- “Canavalia Septentrionalis.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pp323
