Canavalia brasiliensis
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Canavalia brasiliensis

Barbicou-bean · Brazilian Jackbean · Babricou bean

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: full_sun
Temperature
20–37 °C
Soil pH
6–8
Hardiness
Zone 9–11
0
Observations
6

Care Guide

💧 Water
☀️ Light Full sun

The Brazilian jackbean is a sun-loving perennial herbaceous plant native to open habitats, frequently occurring in meadows and grasslands. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C

The Brazilian jackbean comes from tropical areas where the climate is generally warm and humid. Consequently, it is well suited to high temperatures and humidity. It does not tolerate abrupt temperature changes and prefers a steady thermal environment, so it is important to avoid temperature fluctuations indoors. It typically cannot withstand cold and requires warmer temperatures for growth. If the surrounding temperature falls too low, the plant’s growth may stop or it may die.

Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-8
Soil pH: 6-8
🌱 Fertilizer

Brazilian jackbean needs the most fertilizer during its active growth period, which takes place mainly in spring, summer, and early fall. Applying fertilizer supplies essential nutrients that the soil may lack, supporting healthy root and stem development and enhancing the attractive foliage that is a distinctive feature of this plant.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

The Brazilian jackbean is known for its vigorous growth and large, trifoliate leaves. To maintain its health and manage its size, focus on pruning in early spring by removing dead stems and shaping the plant. Regular pruning not only enhances the plant's appearance but also promotes its overall health and increases foliage density. Be vigilant for pests and excessive growth, and remove any competing suckers to ensure optimal development.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Vine, Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Canavalia
Family
Fabaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
2.13 m to 3.96 m
Mature Spread
0.91 m to 2.13 m
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Purple, Pink
Flower Size
2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
Bloom Time
Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall, Early winter
Native Area
Belize, Honduras, Mexico, Guatemala, Peru, Panama, Colombia, Cuba, Bolivia, Venezuela, Guyana, Brazil, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Costa Rica

Tags (5)

Common Names (3)

en Barbicou-bean
en Brazilian Jackbean
en Babricou bean