Phaseolus lunatus Play pronunciation

Lima Beans are an annual or perennial, flowering plant, in the bean family, producing edible beans. It is typically grown as a scrambling vine, but bush cultivars are available. The bush cultivars mature earlier than the pole cultivars. It is native to Mexico and northern states in South America, where it is often grown as a perennial. However, it is frost tender and grown as an annual in cooler climates. It produces plump, colored beans that can be distinguished from the common lima bean or navy bean by the distinct lines radiating from the scar at the center of the inner curved side.

Lima Beans do best in consistently moist, organically rich, well drained soil sited in full sun. It does not do well in the shade. It can grow in nutritionally poor soils. Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. You can start Lima Beans in pots 4 to 6 weeks before last frost and then plant outside. However, it is more typical to plant seeds outdoors at the last frost date in spring. 

Plant the seeds in rows and, if grown as a vine, provide poles or other support for the plant to climb on. Bean production may lag in hot summer temperatures. Pick beans when ripe to encourage new flowers. This plant can become weedy.

Click here to see a calendar of planting schedules, time-to-harvest, and recommended spacing.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Can be susceptible to mosaic viral disease, bacterial blight, anthracnose, powdery mildew and white mold. Mexican bean beetles and Japanese beetles can attack the foliage. Until established, growing plants may need some protection from slugs.