Wild Bushbean

Macroptilium lathyroides

Wild Bushbean

Harry Rose from South West Rocks, Australia

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Macroptilium
Species:
Macroptilium lathyroides

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Annual | Biennial | Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Vine
Height:
3-4 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
mar, apr, may, sep, oct, nov
Bloom Colors:
pink, purple, red

Native Range

United States: Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Navassa Island, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Texas, Virgin Islands

Host Plant for Caterpillars

velvetbean caterpillar (Anticarsia gemmatalis), Cassius Blue (Leptotes cassius)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
well-drained, sandy to loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to tropical and subtropical regions, often found in disturbed areas