French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Choice Edible (5/5)

Phaseolus vulgaris is a ANNUAL growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is frost tender. It is in leaf from May to October, in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild flavour and should only be cooked for a short time. — Immature seedpods - raw or cooked.; The green pods are commonly used as a vegetable, they have a mild flavour and should only be cooked for a short time.; When growing the plant for its seedpods, be sure to pick them whilst they are still small and tender.; This will ensure the continued production of more pods by the plant.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known in a truly wild situation. (Zone 2)