Status:
valid
Authors:
Teijsm. & Binn. ex Kurz
Source:
ildis
Year:
1874
Citation Micro:
J. Asiat. Soc. Bengal, Pt. 2, Nat. Hist.43: 187 (1874)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000207094
Common Names
- Mucuna mollissima
- Soft Velvet Bean
- Soft Mucuna
Synonyms
- Mucuna amblyodon Harms [valid]
- Mucuna baileyana Merr. & L.M.Perry [valid]
- Mucuna clemensiae Merr. & L.M.Perry [valid]
- Mucuna urens papuana F.M.Bailey [valid]
- Mucuna cyanosperma K.Schum. [valid]
- Stizolobium mollissimum (Teijsm. & Binn. ex Kurz) Piper [valid]
- Stizolobium cyanospermum (K.Schum.) Kuntze [valid]
Description
Mucuna mollissima (also called Soft Velvet Bean, among many other common names) is a perennial, climbing shrub native to tropical regions of the world. It has large, heart-shaped leaves and produces long, velvety pods containing edible seeds. It is found in tropical rainforests, woodlands, and disturbed areas.
Uses & Benefits
Mucuna mollissima has been used as an ornamental plant, as a cover crop, and as a source of forage for livestock.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Mucuna mollissima has small, white flowers with yellow centers and a sweet scent. The seeds are small, round and black. The seedlings are small and have a thin stem with light green leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Mucuna mollissima is a fast-growing, evergreen vine that can be grown from seed. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Propagation is best done by seed, which should be sown in spring or early summer. Germination can take up to two weeks. Once established, the plants can be divided in spring.
Where to Find Mucuna mollissima
Mucuna mollissima is found in tropical Africa, from Ethiopia to South Africa.
Mucuna mollissima FAQ
What is the scientific name of Mucuna mollissima?
Mucuna mollissima
What is the common name of Mucuna mollissima?
Mucuna
What is the natural habitat of Mucuna mollissima?
Mucuna mollissima is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia.
Species in the Mucuna genus
Mucuna argyrophylla,
Mucuna holtonii,
Mucuna rostrata,
Mucuna urens,
Mucuna elliptica,
Mucuna mitis,
Mucuna mollis,
Mucuna mutisiana,
Mucuna coriacea,
Mucuna ferox,
Mucuna flagellipes,
Mucuna gigantea,
Mucuna glabrialata,
Mucuna melanocarpa,
Mucuna poggei,
Mucuna pesa,
Mucuna pruriens,
Mucuna sloanei,
Mucuna stans,
Mucuna urens,
Mucuna killipiana,
Mucuna sempervirens,
Mucuna birdwoodiana,
Mucuna macrocarpa,
Mucuna diabolica,
Mucuna reptans,
Mucuna bodinieri,
Mucuna membranacea,
Mucuna pacifica,
Mucuna novoguineensis,
Mucuna platyphylla,
Mucuna pallida,
Mucuna warburgii,
Mucuna humblotii,
Mucuna manongarivensis,
Mucuna paniculata,
Mucuna championii,
Mucuna interrupta,
Mucuna macrobotrys,
Mucuna hainanensis,
Mucuna lamellata,
Mucuna cyclocarpa,
Mucuna calophylla,
Mucuna bracteata,
Mucuna gracilipes,
Mucuna monosperma,
Mucuna oligoplax,
Mucuna revoluta,
Mucuna stenoplax,
Mucuna thailandica,
Species in the Fabaceae family