Smurf Bean Tree

A remarkable shrub that already intrigued me as a child! In late summer, peculiar navy blue pods emerge, which are shelled young and raw, just like broad beans. The "beans" (the seeds) are inedible, but the white, soft pulp has a surprisingly delicate, sweet taste. The easiest way to eat them is to put everything in your mouth and spit out the seeds! The shrubs are completely winter-hardy; originally from Asia, they prefer a moist, semi-shaded spot, but well-drained.

Names:
Latin: Decaisnea fargesii
Dutch: Smurfbonen-Boom (Smurf Bean Tree)
Also known as: Blauwe Worstenboom (Blue Sausage Tree), Blauwe Tuinbonenboom (Blue Broad Bean Tree)
English: Dead Man’s Fingers, Blue Sausage Fruit