Phaseolus vulgaris

Phaseolus vulgaris

Common bean

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Common beanFrench beanString beanSnap beanGarden bean

Context

nativeRegion

Native to Central and South America.

usdaZones

Grown as an annual in all USDA zones; not frost-hardy.

companionPlants

Corn, Squash, Carrot, Radish, Cabbage

culturalUses

Major global food crop; cultivated for edible green pods ('snap beans') and mature dry beans used in numerous cuisines.

Care

LightFull sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day).

WateringModerate, water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering once pods form.

SoilWell-draining, fertile loam; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5).

FertilizerNot heavy feeders; a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer or compost at planting is sufficient. Excess nitrogen can reduce yields.

HumidityAdaptable; prefers moderate humidity but avoid wet foliage to prevent disease.

TemperatureOptimal range 18-30°C (65-85°F); sensitive to frost.

HabitAnnual, bushy or climbing (pole) growth forms.

Mature SizeBush types 30-60 cm tall; pole types 1.8-3 m tall given support.

Growth RateFast-growing; ready to harvest in 50-65 days (bush) or 60-90 days (pole) after sowing.

BloomingSmall white, pink, or purple flowers appear in clusters before pod set.

DormancyNo dormancy; completes lifecycle within a single season.

MethodsSeed

DifficultyEasy (direct sow outdoors after frost danger passes).

Best SeasonSpring to early summer.

PruningNot necessary for bush types; pole varieties may be gently trained onto supports.

RepottingUsually direct sown outdoors; transplanting not typical due to sensitive roots.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to aphids, bean beetles, and fungal diseases (rust, blight). Practice crop rotation and use disease-resistant varieties.

ToxicityRaw beans (especially red varieties) can be toxic due to lectins; always cook thoroughly.

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