Purple Bushbean

(Macroptilium atropurpureum)

Purple Bushbean (Macroptilium atropurpureum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Macroptilium atropurpureum, commonly known as Purple Bushbean, is a deciduous perennial vine or herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and plains in Mexico, Central and South America. It can reach heights and widths of 10-13 feet, displaying a sprawling growth habit. The plant produces vibrant purple flowers during the winter and spring, which are particularly showy and attract pollinators. Its foliage is also noteworthy for its lush green color.

Purple Bushbean is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in a range of soil types, from coarse to fine textures, and pH levels from acidic (5.0) to alkaline (8.0). It is an excellent choice for ground cover, erosion control, and revegetation of low-fertility lands due to its robust growth and adaptability. In cultivation, it prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, and it requires minimal water once established. While it can survive minimum temperatures of 23 °F, it is not frost-tolerant and should be protected or grown in regions with milder winters. It has an average salinity and shade tolerance and requires annual precipitation between 15 and 111 cm. Potential problems include susceptibility to pests like bean weevils and fungal diseases in humid conditions. It is not typically invasive but should be managed to prevent unwanted spread in non-native areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine, Herb
  • Height: 10-13 feet
  • Width: 10-13 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and plains in Mexico, Central and South America

Other Names

Common Names: Atro, Surple-Bean, Purple-Bean, Purple Bean, Purpurbohne, Conchito, Siratro, Kurobana-Tsuru-Azuki, Zi Hua Da Yi Dou, 賽芻豆

Scientific Names: , Macroptilium atropurpureum, Phaseolus atropurpureus, Phaseolus vestitus, Phaseolus atropurpureus var. sericeus, Phaseolus affinis, Phaseolus dysophyllus, Dolichos rhynchosioides, Phaseolus atropurpureus f. intermedius, Phaseolus atropurpureus var. canescens

GBIF Accepted Name: Macroptilium atropurpureum (DC.) Urb.