Bean, Pole: Pretzel

Absolutely our favorite bean!

An ancient West African native is grown for its unique look and great taste. Another great trait is that they are even easier to grow than the now-popular yard-long bean. It matures early for cowpeas, making it suitable for gardens in the North.

These rare plants are a sight to see. They will stay in a bush but prefer to climb if you support them. Their long pods curl around on themselves, making them look like a curly fry. Picked young and green, the cooked beans have a delicious, nutty flavor. 

First introduced commercially in 1893 by W. Atlee Burpee under the name Rams Horn Bean. West Africa is where this species was domesticated. It was first recorded in Greece in 300 B.C., and it must have spread through Southern Europe; from there, evolving as it moved from village to village over time.

Whether for amusement or food, the Pretzel Bean is worth growing at least once. Big pink-purple flowers are also edible. Also known as Ram's Horn or Ram's Head Bean.

Non-GMO
USES- Fresh, dried
FLAVOR- Nutty, rich
VEG. COLOR- Green, tan
VEG. SIZE- Medium
SEED DEPTH- 1/2"-1"
PLANT SPACING- 6"-10"
FROST HARDY- No
USDA ZONES- 2-11
HRS. SUNLIGHT- 6+
DAYS TO HARVEST- 70
GENUS- Phaseolus unguiculata
LINEAGE- Heirloom
SEED COUNT- 15
GERMINATION RATE- 80% 10/23
(item #: PB-30)