Mucuna Species, Buffalo Bean, Cow Itch, Hell Fire Bean, Velvet Bean
Mucunapruriens

Synonym:Dolichos pruriens

Synonym:Mucuna prurita

Synonym:Mucuna esquirolii

Synonym:Stizolobium pruritum

Category
Tropicals and Tender Perennials
Vines and Climbers

Water Requirements
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater

Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Sun to Partial Shade

Foliage

Foliage Color

Height
12-15 ft. (3.6-4.7 m)
15-20 ft. (4.7-6 m)
20-30 ft. (6-9 m)
30-40 ft. (9-12 m)
over 40 ft. (12 m)

Spacing

Hardiness
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)

Where to Grow

Danger
Handling plant may cause skin irritation or allergic reaction

Bloom Color
Dark Purple/Black
White/Near White

Bloom Characteristics
This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and/or birds

Bloom Size

Bloom Time
Mid Summer
Late Summer/Early Fall

Other details

Soil pH requirements

Patent Information
Non-patented

Propagation Methods
From seed; direct sow after last frost

Seed Collecting
Allow pods to dry on plant; break open to collect seeds
Allow seedheads to dry on plants; remove and collect seeds
Wear gloves to protect hands when handling seeds
Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored