Common Bean
Phaseolus vulgaris
A climbing or bushy herbaceous plant with bright green trifoliate leaves, small flowers, and elongated seed pods.
- Light
- Full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light per day.
- Water
- Consistent moisture is needed, especially during flowering; approximately 1 inch of water per week. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
- Growth
- Annual herb; can be 'pole' (vining/climbing up to 10 feet) or 'bush' (compact, 1-2 feet tall).
Care instructions
Requires bright light and consistent moisture in well-draining soil. Apply a balanced fertilizer during the early growth stage, though excessive nitrogen can inhibit flowering.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light per day.
Watering
Consistent moisture is needed, especially during flowering; approximately 1 inch of water per week. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
Well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Hardiness zone
USDA zones 2-11 (grown as an annual in most climates).
Growth habit
Annual herb; can be 'pole' (vining/climbing up to 10 feet) or 'bush' (compact, 1-2 feet tall).
Bloom season
Summer; produces small white, pink, or purple pea-like flowers followed by seed pods.
Propagation
Propagated by seed sown directly into the soil after the last frost of the season.
Common pests & issues
Prone to bean beetles, aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or rust.
Similar species
Lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus) have broader, more leathery leaves; Runner beans (Phaseolus coccineus) often have larger, brighter red flowers.