Introduction
The
rice bean (Vigna
umbellata
syn. Phaseolus
calcaratus)
is native to South
and Southeast
Asia. The rice
bean, which is
known for its
diverse distribution
and range of adaptation
from the humid
subtropical to
warm and cool
temperate climate,
is also found
in the Himalayas,
central China
and extends to
lower altitude
limits in Malaysia.
It is also grown
in Myanmar, Malaysia,
Fiji, Mauritius,
Indonesia, Korea,
Japan and in the
Philippines. Its
successful cultivation
has been reported
in Queensland
and East Africa
(Chandel et al.,
1978). There are
reports that the
rice bean is also
thriving in Honduras,
Brazil and Mexico.
