Phaseolus rimbachii
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Phaseolus rimbachii faces severe threats from agricultural expansion and habitat conversion in its restricted Andean range. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while collection pressure for genetic resources and climate-induced shifts in montane ecosystems further compound its precarious status. Overgrazing by livestock in highland areas has degraded the specific soil conditions this wild bean requires for survival.
Habitat
This wild bean species inhabits montane cloud forests and highland grasslands in the Andes, typically growing in well-drained soils at elevations between 2,000-3,500 meters. It favors disturbed forest edges and clearings where it can climb on shrubs and small trees in areas with consistent moisture from cloud cover.