Discover the Minnie Butterbean

The Minnie Butterbean (Phaseolus lunatus) is an heirloom pole lima variety that revolutionizes your garden experience. Known for its rich buttery flavor, this unique bean produces a vigorous climbing vine, yielding an impressive amount of 2.5 inch pods. Maturing in just 80-90 days, it is perfect for gardeners seeking quick results and a bountiful harvest.

Planting and Care

To cultivate these beans successfully, it’s essential to choose the right environment. This variety loves warm weather and thrives particularly well in north-central West Virginia. Pods mature over an extended period, so you’ll enjoy a continuous supply of fresh beans. Best practice suggests picking the pods when they soften slightly, ensuring the seeds inside are fully swollen for optimal flavor.

Flavor Profile

When shelled and cooked for around 20 minutes, the Minnie Butterbean reveals its delightful buttery taste. The beautiful mottled seed coloration becomes apparent in the green seeds, adding visual appeal to your dishes. Compared to the ‘Bill Leach’ variety, it has a slightly less sweet flavor but offers a unique richness that makes it a staple in many kitchens.

Storage Tips

For those interested in saving seeds, be cautious as the pods will shatter if allowed to dry fully in the field. To prevent a mess, finish drying in mesh bags under cover. This ensures you can continue growing this delicious bean year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the ideal planting time for Minnie Butterbean? Plant in late spring once the soil has warmed.
• What USDA Zone is suitable for growing Minnie Butterbean? This plant thrives in USDA Zones 3-10.
• What type of soil is best for planting? Well-draining soil enriched with organic matter is ideal.
• How much sunlight do these beans need? They require full sun, at least 6-8 hours a day.
• Can I grow these beans in containers? Yes, they can be grown in large containers with proper support for climbing.