Negro bean
Mucuna monosperma
Family: Fabaceae
What it is like
A large woody climber. The leaves have 3 leaflets. The flowers are violet. They are in groups in the axils of leaves. The pods have wings and are covered with dark brown hairs. These hairs irritate the skin.
There are about 100 Mucuna species. They grow in tropical places.
Where it is found
A tropical plant.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, India, Myanmar, Northeastern India, SE Asia, Sikkim
How it is used for food
The seeds are roasted then eaten. The young pods are cooked as a vegetable.
It is a famine food.
Edible parts
Seeds, pods
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Adadaveliya, Anipeballi, Bai donka, Bal dhengra, Enugadulagondi, Kagadolia, Kattupayar, Khatavangi, Malanthelli, Mapinewne, Mei-siarvyntim, Mothi Khaj kohili, Mothi-kuhili, Myauk-do, Myauk-go-nyin, Peddadulagondi, Periyattalargai, Sarni, Sonagaravi, Thelu-kodi