Parkia Speciosa
Contents
Description
Parkia Speciosa, commonly known as the stink bean tree or twisted cluster bean, is a tropical tree found in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is known for its edible beans and leaves used in traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Parkia |
Appearance
The stink bean tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a thick, smooth bark. Its leaves are compound and can grow up to 30 cm long with 6 to 20 leaflets. The tree produces clusters of greenish-yellow flowers that develop into long, twisted pods containing the edible beans. The beans are dark brown and have a pungent odor when cooked.
Care Guide
The stink bean tree requires moist, well-draining soil and regular watering. It grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months. It can tolerate a range of hardiness zones from 9a to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The stink bean tree is susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases if overwatered. It can also attract aphids and caterpillars, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regular pruning can also help prevent pest problems.
Habitat
The stink bean tree is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in tropical rainforests, lowland forests, and coastal areas. It is commonly grown in home gardens and farms for its edible beans and leaves used in traditional medicine.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Parkia Speciosa a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the leaves and beans of the stink bean tree are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and inflammation.
Q: Can the stink bean tree be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the stink bean tree can be grown in large containers but may require regular pruning to control its size.
Q: What is the taste of the stink bean?
A: The stink bean has a unique flavor that is described as a combination of bitter, sweet, and nutty with a pungent smell when cooked.
Q: Can the stink bean be eaten raw?
A: No, the stink bean must be cooked before consumption to remove its pungent odor and make it safe to eat.
Related Plants
- Parkia Timoriana
- Parkia Roxburghii
- Parkia Biglandulosa
References
- “Parkia Speciosa”. Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Retrieved 18 June 2021.
- “Parkia Speciosa”. World Agroforestry Centre. Retrieved 18 June 2021.
- “Stink Bean Tree (Parkia Speciosa)”. The Tropical Gardener. Retrieved 18 June 2021.
