Bambara bean -, African Yellow Beans

Bambara beans are seeds that grow in pods and come in various colors and shapes. They have a crunchy exterior and starchy interior when cooked.

Bambara beans can grow in harsh environments and are drought-resistant, making them ideal for farmers in dry areas with poor soil. They can also naturally enrich the soil and are often planted with pumpkin and maize. This plant has three leaflets and produces small, round seeds beneath the soil after pollination. It is the third most popular legume in Africa, after groundnuts and cowpeas.. Each pod contains one or two seeds.
Sow seeds 1" deep indoors 3-4 weeks before planting. Transplant one month after last frost - these babies love heat! Space plants by 8-10". When the tiny yellow flowers are pollinated, they will form "pegs" that dig under the soil and create your bambara fruits.

Harvest when soil is dry and evening temperatures dip below 40 degrees fahrenheit. Some bambara fruits may fall off the plants and remain in the soil during harvest. Do a second check with a fork or rake to find any you left behind. Let the plants dry in the sun for a few days before removing peanuts. Allow bambaras to cure for up to a week before storing.