Seeds from Mucuna pruriens Velvet bean Cowitch. A climbing plant that grows up to 30 ft. in length. It is a very prolific and annual shrub with climbing tendencies. The herbal adaptogen that is mucuna pruriens is well known for its wide range of tonifying, strengthening and all around beneficial properties. Perhaps it is best known as a potent herbal aphrodisiac. This annual can be hardy in zones 9b to 11.