🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Black gram is primarily cultivated for its edible seeds, which are a staple food in many cuisines. It serves as a nitrogen-fixing cover crop, improving soil fertility. The entire plant can be used as green manure. It's drought-tolerant and adaptable, making it valuable in challenging environments. Some cultivars are specifically bred for higher yields or disease resistance.
Permapeople description
A bean from the Indian subcontinent, known for its small black seeds.
Botanical description
Vigna mungo is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It grows erect, sub-erect or trailing, reaching a height of up to 1 meter. The leaves are trifoliate, with ovate leaflets. The flowers are typically yellow and self-pollinating. The pods are cylindrical, narrow, and hairy, containing 4-10 small, globular, black seeds. The root system features nitrogen-fixing nodules.
Companion planting
Benefits from intercropping with cereals like sorghum and millet, improving soil nutrient availability. Avoid planting with alliums (garlic, onions) as they may inhibit growth.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily through seeds. Direct sowing is the most common method. Seeds require warm soil temperatures for germination. Inoculation with rhizobium bacteria can improve nitrogen fixation.
History and traditions
Black gram has a long history of cultivation in India, dating back thousands of years. It's a significant ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine, used for its purported medicinal properties, including digestive aid and strengthening the body. It is also used in various religious ceremonies and traditional culinary practices.
Usage calendar
Sowing: May-July. Flowering: June-September. Harvesting: August-November (depending on variety and climate). Green manure incorporation: before flowering.