Madagascar Bean Information

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MADAGASCAR BEAN GROWING INFORMATION

Common Name: Madagascar Bean syn. Tropical Lima Bean

Botanical Name: Phaseolus lunatus syn. P. limensis

Family: Fabaceae

Plant Description: A vigorous climbing tropical lima bean, which will last for many years in the ground. It is excellent at coping with wet, humid conditions. There is usually little pod production in the first year but it is prolific after that. It is tolerant of a wide variety of soil types.

Madagascar bean needs a sturdy trellis as it grows vigorously. This is an excellent hardy bean for warmer climates as it dies backs and re-shoots every year. The beans (not the pods) can be eaten fresh, while still white before any colour shows. They also dry well on the vine to a beautiful speckled red and white bean that can be stored for winter soups and casseroles.

Uses:

The seeds are an attractive white with burgundy speckles. The shelled beans can be used fresh or dried in soups and stews. The dried beans can also be used to make tempeh. The sprouted seeds are used as a vegetable in Chinese cooking. The young pods are steamed and eaten. The young leaves can also be steamed and eaten but have a bitter flavour.

CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS

Recommended Planting Time: Sow in spring.

Planting Depth: Sow the seed 2-4 cm deep.

Sowing rate: Sow directly into the ground, at least 60 cm apart.

Details: This vigorous vine needs a strong trellis.

BEAN BURGERS
1 cup dried Madagascar beans, soaked overnight and cooked until soft, then mashed
1 onion and 3 garlic cloves chopped finely and fried until soft
1/4 cup parsley chopped finely
1 cup grated cheese
1 egg
2 carrots, grated
Dash of tamari or soy sauce, salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients well, shape into burgers and roll in breadcrumbs with added sesame seeds. Fry gently until brown on both sides.

DISCLAIMER: We guarantee our seeds to the value of the purchase price. We are happy to replace the seeds, give you a credit or refund, whichever you prefer. Other than our guarantee to the extent of the purchase price Green Harvest gives no other warranty expressed or implied. No liability will be accepted by Green Harvest, its owners or employees as to the accuracy of any information. No responsibility will be taken for damage to property or persons due to information given about a product or technique. No responsibility will be taken for the loss of a crop or income due to information given about a product or technique.