Rattlesnake Pole Bean

Beautiful striped bean pods on tall vines taste terrific as fresh steamed snaps and are stringless when young. Produces well in heat and sandy soils and is especially popular in parts of the Southern US. Sometimes called the Preacher bean.

Days to maturity: 56

Seeds per pack: 40

Germination rate: 75.75% on 03/22/2024

Planting / harvesting notes

Plant in warm soil at least a couple weeks after the last danger of frost has passed. Sow directly in the ground at a depth of one inch, spaced every few inches in rows 12 inches apart. Thin to one plant every four to six inches. Provide a sturdy trellis as the vines can grow six to eight feet tall.

Seed keeping notes

Beans are self-pollinating, though it is best to isolate different varieties of P. vulgaris by at least 25 feet (we do 75 feet to be sure) to avoid unwanted cross-pollination from flying insects. For seed saving, harvest the beans when their shells have become dried and crispy on the plants. Lay out the pods in a dry, sunny place to dry down further. Shell the beans and lay out the seeds in a well ventilated place away from direct sunlight for at least another few days to a week before storing for next year.