ABSTRACT
Lima bean is believed to be a native of the tropical fertile valleys of Central and South America and originated in or near Guatemala. Lima bean is one of the important members of leguminous group of vegetables, which is not closely related to the French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) or runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus). Wild lima beans probably support themselves by climbing on other plants. Lima bean is the most nutritive vegetable among the leguminous crops because it contains fat-free high quality protein and is a good source of cholesterol-lowering dietary fibre. Lima bean is one of the ancient and valuable vegetable crops cultivated in home, market and truck gardens for canning purposes and shipment. Lima bean is carminative, diuretic and beneficial in treating kidney problems. Lima bean requires a dry cool climate and grows well at temperature range of 15-25 degree C. Lima bean can be grown on a wide range of soils from light sandy loams to heavy clays.
