Caracol, Corkscrew-flower, Snail-flower, Snail bean, Bertoni bean
Vigna caracalla

Family: Fabaceae

What it is like

It is a short lived climber. It grows 3-6 m long. It spreads 3 m wide. The stems are twining. The leaves have 3 leaflets. The leaflets are oval and dull green. The flowers have a sweet smell. The flowers are coiled and shell shape. They are violet to pink. The pods also have a sweet smell and are coiled. The seeds are of several colours.

Where it is found

A subtropical plant. It grows in the tropics. It needs regular moisture in hot places. It will grow in most well-drained soils. In Argentina it grows from sea level to 1,500 m above sea level. It suits hardiness zones 10-11.

Countries/locations it is found in

Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Dominican Republic, Europe, India, North America, Paraguay, Slovenia, South America, Uruguay, West Indies

How it is used for food

The root is used to assist the fermenation of a drink in Mexico.

Edible parts

Seeds, root

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Phaseolus caracalla Linn.; Phaseolus bertonii;