Phaseolus vulgaris

Beans are a warm-season vegetable in the bean family (Fabaceae). They are native to the tropical regions of the Americas. They were domesticated in pre-Columbian times, and hundreds of cultivars have been selected and bred over the years. Some cultivars are adapted to small geographic areas. The epithet, vulgaris, is Latin for "common."

Beans prefer full sun and fertile, well-drained soils. They may take a climbing, trailing, or bush-like form. Depending on the variety, they will require 6 to 12 feet of space in the garden, and seedlings should be transplanted once the first true leaves have emerged. Individual plants should be spaced between 6 inches and 3 feet apart. Pole beans require a climbing trellis, whereas bush bean cultivars are compact, like bushes, and do not need a climbing support. Harvest snap beans (green beans) regularly while young and tender to keep the plants producing. Beans grown for drying should be allowed to mature on the plant.

This genus is commercially divided into four categories, including wax beans, dry beans, shelling beans and popping beans. All beans are ecologically beneficial as they add much needed nitrogen back into the soil. They also enable better uptake of water and nutrients through a symbiotic relationship with fungi in the soil.  

Beans make an excellent addition to a home vegetable garden. Bush beans are suitable for containers, and pole beans make excellent use vertical spaces. 

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits, and Nuts" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.