Frijol Sangre de Toro (Bean)

These deep red "Bull's Blood" beans melt in the mouth and are an important crop in Morelos and Oaxaca, Mexico where they are eaten with mole or refried. Thank you to Maria Hernandez of Cruz Family Little Farm for introducing this delicious, silky variety from her hometown of Morelos. This is a pole bean that is traditionally grown in the middle of the corn fields.

Days to maturity: 85

Seeds per pack: 20-25

Germination rate: 99% on 11/12/2024

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 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.