What is this

[Warthog]

This is a vine I have growing wild in an area that is quite shady amongst a fair amount of bush.

These are the seed pods.

These are the flower buds

Both pictures were taken about 10 days ago, I have not had chance yet to catch one with the flowers in bloom.

But my guess is the sweet pea family, although I have not noticed the little tendrils that sweet peas have.

Any ideas anyone?

 

[digitS']

Could this vine be a velvet bean, Janet?

(click!)

There are a few different species.

Steve

 

[Warthog]

Digit S, just checked out your picture and done some other research looks like you could be right.

Seems like velvet bean (never heard of it before) has some reputed natural health benefits, not going to try it can get quite scary unless you know you have the right species and quantities etc.

But also looks like would make a good cover crop, that could also be used as food for the goats. Need to do more research on that.

If anyone has any more information, I would welcome it.

 

[hoodat]

Good idea to pin down the ID of any legume before you consume it. Some can be quite poisonous.

 

[pharmerphil]

hyacinth bean

 

[lesa]

That is exactly what I thought, Pharmerphil! I had a terrible time growing it in zone 4- but those conditions would be perfect!

 

[Warthog]

hyacinth bean

Hmmmm don't know, it certainly doesn't have purple seed pods, still thinking more on the line of velvet bean. But will keep my eye on the seed pods in case they turn purple.

 

[I'm A Gardener :)]

I don'y know but it's pretty!!!