SafePlants

Baybean (Canavalia maritima or Canavalia rosea)

Baybean, also known as beach bean, seaside jack-bean, coastal jack-bean, and MacKenzie bean, is a plant with a rich history and diverse uses. It is often found in coastal regions and has been incorporated into various cultural practices.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Canavalia maritima or Canavalia rosea
• Common Names: beach bean, bay bean, seaside jack-bean, coastal jack-bean, MacKenzie bean, seaside bean, friol de playa, jackbean, Wonderbean
• Family: Fabaceae (pea family)
• Synonyms: Canavalia maritima is listed as a synonym for Canavalia rosea by some sources.

Distribution and Habitat

Baybean has a pantropical distribution, meaning it is found throughout the tropics. It commonly inhabits upper beaches, cliffs, and dunes. Specifically mentioned locations include:

• Mexico (Oaxaca, Yucatan)
• South America
• Gulf Coast of Mexico
• Southeast Florida

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

Baybean is described as a dense ground cover and a ground-based vine that climbs. It can reach lengths of 20 feet or more. The leaves are compound and alternate.

Traditional Uses and Reported Effects

Historically, Baybean has been considered sacred in some South American cultures, with the leaves being placed in and around graves. Dried leaves have been used as an entheogen in ancient Mexican rituals. Some reports indicate that inhaling the smoke or brewing it as a tea can activate psychoactive ingredients. It has also been used as an alternative to tobacco.

Some users have reported mild, sedating effects, while others have suggested it can enhance the effects of other herbs, such as salvia.

Considerations for Pets

• Baybean produces beans (seeds).

Quirky Facts

• In South America and the Gulf Coast of Mexico, bay bean (Canavalia maritima) was considered sacred and the leaves were placed in and around graves by the Mazatecs and other tribal groups.