Canavalia
Canavalia gladiata (and C. ensiformis)
Canavalia gladiata, known as Sword Bean, is a vigorous climbing legume with distinctive long, sword-shaped pods. Native to Asia, it's cultivated for food, forage, green manure, and traditional medicine.
Fabaceae (Legume family)
Summer to fall (timing varies by climate and planting date)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
Sword Bean has been cultivated for centuries across Asia for multiple purposes - food, medicine, and soil improvement. In Tanzania, the Swahili expression for "eating sword bean" literally means "being happy," reflecting its cultural value. The edible flowers called "waterblommetjies" in some regions are a delicacy. As a nitrogen-fixing legume, it symbolizes soil fertility and sustainable agriculture. The plant represents the wisdom of traditional agriculture where single crops serve multiple purposes.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates shade
Water
Moderate; drought-resistant once established but prefers 900-1,500mm rainfall annually
Soil
Adaptable to wide range, Sandy to clay, pH 4.3-7.5 tolerant, Prefers rich organic matter
Expert Growing Tips
Sow seeds 1-1.5 inches deep (2-3 cm) in spring
Space plants 18-24 inches apart (45-60 cm)
Provide strong trellis or support structure
Requires warm temperatures 68-86°F (20-30°C) to thrive
Deep-rooted system makes it drought-tolerant
Nitrogen-fixing ability enriches soil
Can tolerate some waterlogging and salinity
Harvest young pods at 5-6 inches (12-15 cm) for vegetables (3-5 months)
Mature seeds ready in 6-10 months
WARNING: Seeds contain toxic saponins - must be properly prepared before eating
Seeds must be dehulled, soaked in salted water, and thoroughly cooked
NOT suitable for raw consumption
Relatively resistant to pests and diseases
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Ornamental climbing vine on fences and structures
- Traditional "snake repellent" (belief in some cultures)
- Tropical foliage screens
- Arbor and pergola coverage
Traditional Uses
- Extensively used in traditional Korean and Japanese medicine
- Seeds used for asthma, coughs, kidney issues, and digestive problems
- Anti-inflammatory, antitussive, and stomachic properties
- Used for hemorrhoids, pyorrhea, and inflammatory diseases in Japan
- Soap made from extracts for athlete's foot and acne in Korea
- Contains urease enzyme used in clinical laboratories
- Recent studies show antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-HIV potential
- Anti-osteoporosis and hepatoprotective activities documented
- High phenolic content in seed coat with antioxidant activity
- WARNING: Contains toxic compounds - only use under expert guidance
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Canavalia
are sword beans edible
Yes, but sword bean seeds are toxic raw and must be dehulled, soaked in salted water, and thoroughly cooked for at least an hour — young pods (5-6 inches) are safer and eaten as vegetables in Asia.
what is the difference between sword bean and jack bean
Sword Bean (Canavalia gladiata) has a hilum nearly as long as the seed, while Jack Bean (C. ensiformis) has a hilum less than half the seed length — both are similar climbing legumes.
how do you grow sword beans
Grow Sword Beans by sowing seeds 1-1.5 inches deep in warm soil (68-86°F), providing strong support, and spacing 18-24 inches apart — they fix nitrogen and tolerate drought once established.
what are the medicinal uses of sword bean
Sword Bean is used in traditional Asian medicine for asthma, coughs, inflammation, and digestive issues — recent studies show antioxidant and anti-cancer potential, but use only under expert guidance due to toxicity.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Wisteria
Wisteria sinensis (and other spp.)
Wisteria is a vigorous climbing vine known for its spectacular cascading clusters of fragrant flowers. It symbolizes grace, beauty, and welcome.
Clover
Trifolium repens
Clovers are small, three-leaflet plants with spherical flower heads. They symbolize good luck, faith, hope, and love, especially the rare four-leaf clover.
Bauhinia
Bauhinia spp.
Bauhinia is a stunning tropical tree with orchid-like flowers and distinctive butterfly-shaped leaves, symbolizing beauty, elegance, and transformation.