Succotash beans are a rare, heirloom Phaseolus vulgaris pole bean from the Narragansett tribe, known for their purple-blue, corn-kernel-shaped seeds, historically used in the traditional Indigenous dish succotash with corn, and valued for their sweet, nutty flavor when cooked as a dry or shelly bean. These vigorous climbing plants need support (trellis), warm soil (after frost), and full sun, maturing in about 80-100 days to produce meaty, flavorful beans perfect for hearty stews or as a versatile side dish.
Key Characteristics
- Appearance: Dime-sized, purple-blue seeds that look like corn kernels; green pods with mottling.
- Type: A vigorous pole bean (climbing) that needs support.
- Flavor: Sweet and nutty, becoming creamy and buttery when cooked.
- Usage: Harvest as plump “shelly” beans or dry for long-term storage; excellent in succotash, soups, or as a side.
Growing Details
- When to Plant: After the last frost, when soil is warm (70-80°F).
- Sun: Full sun is essential.
- Soil: Well-drained, organic-rich soil (pH 6.0-6.8).
- Support: Provide a trellis or poles for vines (up to 5-7 ft tall).
- Maturity: About 80-100 days.
Historical Significance
- Origin: Developed by the Narragansett Indian tribe of Rhode Island.
- Dish: Believed to be the original bean in traditional succotash, served at the first Thanksgiving.
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