PRETZEL BEAN SEEDS

Vigna unguiculata v. bicontorta

An ancient West African native that is most often grown for curiosity, but this bean is just as tasty and even easier to grow than the now ubiquitous “yard long bean". Matures early for a cowpea, making it suitable for gardens in the North.

Vining and twining plants are best grown on a tall trellis. Their long pods curl around on themselves to produce a vegetable somewhat akin to a curly fry. Picked young and green, the cooked beans, though somewhat tough, have a delicious nutty flavor. Toss them into a curry in lieu of shrimp! Historically the greens were also eaten, although this is not necessarily recommended, nor is eating any part of this species uncooked.

Whether for amusement or nourishment, Pretzel Bean is worth growing at least once. Typical bean culture applies: sow outdoors in warm sunny soil after the last frost. Beans will rot in cold soil. This species tolerates crowding, as well as dry soils once established. Young plants may need to be tied to a trellis, as they do not seem to twine as readily as common garden beans. If grown for dry beans or decorative pods, train them up cornstalks or sturdy sunflowers to conserve garden space. Big pink flowers are edible.

Grown by Farmacie Isolde.

Packet contains at least 15 seeds.