Bay Bean (Canavalia maritima/rosea)
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Bay Bean (Canavalia maritima/rosea) is another exotic botanical curiosity. There seem to be many stories around this plant, and it was considered important and sacred enough to be placed in graves in and around the area by the Mazatecs and other tribal groups. This alone indicates an importance for this plant in ritual that goes beyond decoration, since the dried leaves of Canavalia aren't pretty (but the smell is absolutely lovely). Natives claim that it fell out of favor a long time ago, but with no thoughts as to why. We are continuing our search for information about this plant; with such a wide range, there must be knowledge of its use in ritual somewhere. Latin Name: Canavalia Maritima, Canavalia rosea (Fabaceae family Legume family) Common Names: Bay Bean, Beach-bean, jackbean, maunaloa, puakauhi, wonderbean, Friol de Playa. This is a very fast-growing and sturdy vine which can be found all over the coastal regions around the Gulf of Mexico, including the Yucatan, but occurs all over the world in tropical and subtropical coastal locations. Its wide range makes it even more curious that little is presently known about this plant. It prefers warmth and can tolerate periods of drought, but definitely likes full sun and the beach! Bay Bean (Canavalia maritima/rosea) can actually be found snaking its way to the ocean from shrubby shorelines and coastal shrub. It sets down roots at nodes as it trails across beaches and dunes, the roots forming networks that aid in stabilizing sands. |
