Andean tree bean
A tropical plant. In the Andes it grows between 2,000-2,800 m altitude. It can be down to 500 m above sea level. It grows in dry and moist tropics. It can be in areas with a temperature range between 5-25°C and a rainfall of 450-1,800 mm. It is best in a sunny position in a loose textured soil. It cannot tolerate soils with a pH below 4.5.
Also known as:
Amasisa, Antipurutu, Balu, Basul, Chachafruto, Pajuro, Porotillo, Sachaporoto
Synonyms
- Erythrina edulis Pos.-Arang.
- Erythrina esculenta Sprague
- Erythrina lorenoi Macbr.
- Erythrina megistophylla Diels
Edible Portion
- Seeds, Fruit
Where does Andean tree bean grow?
Found in: Amazon, Andes, Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Central America, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, South America, Venezuela
Notes: There are 108 Erythrina species.
Status: A productive high protein crop. It is a cultivated food plant. It is an important food crop.
Growing Andean tree bean
Cultivation: Plants can be grown from seed. Seeds grow rapidly. They are also grown from cuttings. It can be used as a hedge.
Edible Uses: The beans are boiled (for 45 minutes or more) and eaten with corn, cassava, bread or potatoes. They are also mashed with cheese, and fried. Caution: The uncooked seeds can be poisonous if eaten often.
Production: Seedlings grow rapidly and can fruit after 2 years. Trees last for 30-40 years. Seeds mature about 3 months after flowering.
Nutrition Info
per 100g edible portion| Edible Part | Energy (kcal) | Protein (g) | Iron (mg) | Vitamin A (ug) | Vitamin c (mg) | Zinc (mg) | % Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seeds | - | 23 | - | - | - | - |
References
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