Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Fabaceae

Genus:

Canavalia

Species:

Canavalia galeata

USDA Symbol:

CAGA

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb , Vine

Height:

600 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

may,jun,jul,aug,sep

Bloom Colors:

purple, pink

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Caterpillars:

★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, butterflies

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

well-drained, sandy loam soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to coastal regions, prefers sandy soils

Propagation & Germination

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

7–21 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) to break hard seed coat.