Common names
Common beans, green beans, yellow beans, climbing beans, bush beans, haricots verts
Classification family
Fabaceae or Leguminosae
Origin of plant
The plant has its origins in Mesoamerica. Wild varieties have been found in Mexico and Guatemala as well as in the Andes in Peru, Bolivia and Argentina
Economic/Food value
Phaseolus vulgaris is cultivated as a source of protein and nutrients. As a member of the bean family, French beans fix nitrogen in the form of nodules, thus improving soil fertility
Cultivars
When phaseolus vulgaris arrived in Europe and Asia, many cultivars were developed to suit the needs of local climates and conditions. There are two main types of cultivars: bush and climbing bean cultivars. A popular climbing bean cultivar is Blue Lake. Phillips and Rix (1993 pp. 92-97) provide photos and descriptions of popular climbing (pole) beans and bush beans. Blazey and Varkulevicius (2011, p. 72) list cultivars popular in Australia. Climbing bean cultivars include: Blue Lake, Lazy Housewife, Purple King, Rattlesnake, and Snake Bean. See also Bennett (1995, p. 173). Bush bean cultivars include: Dragon’s Tongue and Italian Romano.
Dimensions
Climbing beans can grow as high as 1.8 to 2.4 metres high
Flowering habit
Flower colours depend on variety
Seasonality
French beans grow in late spring and summer conditions. In Adelaide, plant between September to January.