Sword bean (Canavalia gladiata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Sword bean on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Sword bean
Canavalia gladiata, commonly known as Sword Jackbean or Sword Bean, is a vigorous climbing legume that produces large, distinctive sword-like pods. Its flowers range from pink to purple, and its large, trifoliate leaves give it a lush appearance. It is ideal for covering pergolas, fences, or trellises, adding an exotic and edible touch to the garden.
Native range
Tropical Asia and Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering and fruiting, though it tolerates some partial shade. Watering should be regular, keeping the soil moist but well-drained, especially during flowering and pod development. It prefers fertile, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Sword bean
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown, wilted, dull leaves. Premature flower or pod drop.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, aerate soil and reduce watering. Place in bright, indirect light.
- What kills it
- Extreme over or under-watering, lack of light. Does not tolerate cold. Poor or compacted soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient. Remove most damaged parts to focus energy on new growth.