Phaseolus polystachios, commonly referred to as wild kidney bean, is a perennial herbaceous vine in the legume family, Fabaceae. Phaseolus polystachios is native to much of eastern North America. The vine has alternating trifolate arranged leaves that are ovately shaped. Phaseolus polystachios can reach between 3 to 13 feet tall and apically twines as a climbing mechanism. Flowers are small, purple, and slipper shaped. Whitish yellow stamens fused by filaments protrude from the center of the flower. Phaseolus polystachios has been historically grown as a food crop. Indigenous people have selectively bred them for many generations. The plant enjoys full sun to partial shade in well draining soil with organic matter. Water adequately, allowing the soil to become slightly dry in between waterings. Provide support or grow this plant near other tall plants to allow full growth potential. USDA plant hardiness zone 6a-10b.
Phaseolus polystachios seeds should be pretreated with a light scarification from sandpaper or a file which significantly reduces germination time as the seed coat is hard. After scarification, soak the seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours prior to planting. Properly scarified seeds will swell as they absorb water. Plant the seeds ½ to 1 inch deep in a well draining potting mix. Plant the seeds at least ½ inch apart from each other to prevent overcrowding. Keep in high moisture and humidity but make sure the soil does not stay soaking wet. Ideal germination temperature is between 60°F to 85°F. Germination typically takes 1 to 2 weeks to occur.
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All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.