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🫘 Connecticut Wonder Pole Bean A "Gift from the Bees" — The 1919 Bolton Heirloom Experience a true miracle of natural selection with the Connecticut Wonder Pole Bean. This rare heirloom is not the product of a laboratory, but a "gift from the bees" discovered in the early 20th-century garden of a Connecticut clergyman. Known for its vigorous climbing habit and its juicy, old-fashioned sweetness, the Connecticut Wonder is a high-yielding snap bean that captures the flavor of a bygone era. For the gardener who values deep historical roots and the magic of nature’s own breeding, this is an essential addition to the trellis. 📜 Historical Heritage: The Reverend’s Discovery The story of the Connecticut Wonder began in Bolton, Connecticut, sometime prior to 1919. The original steward, Reverend Frank Abbott, noticed a unique bean growing in his garden that was unlike any other. He told his granddaughter, Deborah, that the plants were a result of cross-pollination by the local bees. Believing it to be a natural cross between Kentucky Wax and Cranberry Pole beans, the Reverend named the variety Connecticut Wonder. The family carefully preserved these seeds for over half a century. In the mid-1970s, Deborah passed the family treasure to legendary bean collector John Withee, who officially donated them to the Seed Savers Exchange in 1981. Today, it stands as a testament to the Abbott family’s stewardship and the unintentional brilliance of a Bolton bee. ✨ Product Highlights Unique Maturation: The vines produce beautiful white flowers followed by succulent green pods that mature to a striking pale yellow. Classic Heirloom Flavor: The pods are famously sweet and juicy, with the slight stringiness that is the hallmark of traditional, full-flavored snap beans. Stunning Seeds: Inside the mature pods are large, shiny, dark-brown, kidney-shaped seeds that are as beautiful as they are productive. Vigorous Pole Habit: A strong, athletic climber that quickly covers a trellis, providing a heavy harvest over a long season. Resilient & Proven: A New England survivor that has been consistently productive for over 100 years. 🛠️ Quick Growth Profile Feature Specifications Scientific Name Phaseolus vulgaris Original Steward Rev. Frank Abbott (Bolton, CT) History Pre-1919 "Natural Cross" Plant Type Pole Bean (Snap) Days to Maturity 60–70 Days Seed Appearance Large, Shiny, Dark-Brown, Kidney-shaped Flowers Brilliant White 🌱 How to Grow Connecticut Wonder Pole Beans 1. Sowing the Seeds:As a variety born in the Northeast, this bean is well-adapted to temperate climates but loves the summer sun. When: Direct sow outdoors once the soil is warm (65°F+) and all danger of frost has passed. Depth: Sow seeds 1 inch deep. Support: These are strong, heavy climbers. Ensure your trellis, cattle panel, or poles are in place at the time of planting. 2. Maintenance: Spacing: Space seeds 4–6 inches apart along your support. Watering: Provide consistent moisture, particularly when the white flowers begin to bloom and pods start to set. Sun: Needs a location with Full Sun to develop the high sugar content that makes the pods so "sweet and juicy." 3. The Harvest: Snap Stage: For the best culinary experience, harvest the green pods when they are plump but before they transition to pale yellow. Seed Saving: To carry on the Reverend's legacy, allow some pods to stay on the vine until they turn pale yellow and then brittle brown. The dark-brown, shiny seeds inside will be ready to save for next year's garden. 🥗 Culinary Inspiration: The Old-Fashioned Snap The Connecticut Wonder is best enjoyed simply. Because the pods are so naturally juicy, they are excellent when steamed lightly and tossed with butter and a pinch of salt. The slight stringiness adds a traditional "bite" and texture that is highly prized by those who prefer the robust character of authentic heirloom beans over modern, "mass-market" varieties. Garden Tip: Plant these in a spot where you can observe the bees! It’s a wonderful reminder of the history of this bean to see the descendants of the pollinators that first "created" this variety over a century ago. 🫘🐝✨

<h2 id="🫘 Connecticut Wonder Pole Bean" data-line="6">🫘 Connecticut Wonder Pole Bean</h2>
A "Gift from the Bees" — The 1919 Bolton Heirloom
Experience a true miracle of natural selection with the Connecticut Wonder Pole Bean. This rare heirloom is not the product of a laboratory, but a "gift from the bees" discovered in the early 20th-century garden of a Connecticut clergyman. Known for its vigorous climbing habit and its juicy, old-fashioned sweetness, the Connecticut Wonder is a high-yielding snap bean that captures the flavor of a bygone era. For the gardener who values deep historical roots and the magic of nature’s own breeding, this is an essential addition to the trellis.
<hr data-line="11">
<h3 id="📜 Historical Heritage: The Reverend’s Discovery" data-line="13">📜 Historical Heritage: The Reverend’s Discovery</h3>
The story of the Connecticut Wonder began in Bolton, Connecticut, sometime prior to 1919. The original steward, Reverend Frank Abbott, noticed a unique bean growing in his garden that was unlike any other. He told his granddaughter, Deborah, that the plants were a result of cross-pollination by the local bees.
Believing it to be a natural cross between Kentucky Wax and Cranberry Pole beans, the Reverend named the variety Connecticut Wonder. The family carefully preserved these seeds for over half a century. In the mid-1970s, Deborah passed the family treasure to legendary bean collector John Withee, who officially donated them to the Seed Savers Exchange in 1981. Today, it stands as a testament to the Abbott family’s stewardship and the unintentional brilliance of a Bolton bee. 
<hr data-line="18">
<h3 id="✨ Product Highlights" data-line="20">✨ Product Highlights</h3>
<ul data-line="21">
<li data-line="21">
Unique Maturation: The vines produce beautiful white flowers followed by succulent green pods that mature to a striking pale yellow.</li>
<li data-line="22">
Classic Heirloom Flavor: The pods are famously sweet and juicy, with the slight stringiness that is the hallmark of traditional, full-flavored snap beans.</li>
<li data-line="23">
Stunning Seeds: Inside the mature pods are large, shiny, dark-brown, kidney-shaped seeds that are as beautiful as they are productive.</li>
<li data-line="24">
Vigorous Pole Habit: A strong, athletic climber that quickly covers a trellis, providing a heavy harvest over a long season.</li>
<li data-line="25">
Resilient &amp; Proven: A New England survivor that has been consistently productive for over 100 years.</li>
</ul>
<hr data-line="27">
<h3 id="🛠️ Quick Growth Profile" data-line="29">🛠️ Quick Growth Profile</h3>
<table data-line="30">
<thead data-line="30">
<tr data-line="30">
<th>Feature</th>
<th>Specifications</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody data-line="32">
<tr data-line="32">
<td>Scientific Name</td>
<td>Phaseolus vulgaris</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="33">
<td>Original Steward</td>
<td>Rev. Frank Abbott (Bolton, CT)</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="34">
<td>History</td>
<td>Pre-1919 "Natural Cross"</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="35">
<td>Plant Type</td>
<td>Pole Bean (Snap)</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="36">
<td>Days to Maturity</td>
<td>60–70 Days</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="37">
<td>Seed Appearance</td>
<td>Large, Shiny, Dark-Brown, Kidney-shaped</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="38">
<td>Flowers</td>
<td>Brilliant White</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<hr data-line="40">
<h3 id="🌱 How to Grow Connecticut Wonder Pole Beans" data-line="42">🌱 How to Grow Connecticut Wonder Pole Beans</h3>
1. Sowing the Seeds: As a variety born in the Northeast, this bean is well-adapted to temperate climates but loves the summer sun.
<ul data-line="46">
<li data-line="46">
When: Direct sow outdoors once the soil is warm (65°F+) and all danger of frost has passed.</li>
<li data-line="47">
Depth: Sow seeds 1 inch deep.</li>
<li data-line="48">
Support: These are strong, heavy climbers. Ensure your trellis, cattle panel, or poles are in place at the time of planting.</li>
</ul>
2. Maintenance:
<ul data-line="51">
<li data-line="51">
Spacing: Space seeds 4–6 inches apart along your support.</li>
<li data-line="52">
Watering: Provide consistent moisture, particularly when the white flowers begin to bloom and pods start to set.</li>
<li data-line="53">
Sun: Needs a location with Full Sun to develop the high sugar content that makes the pods so "sweet and juicy."</li>
</ul>
3. The Harvest:
<ul data-line="56">
<li data-line="56">
Snap Stage: For the best culinary experience, harvest the green pods when they are plump but before they transition to pale yellow.</li>
<li data-line="57">
Seed Saving: To carry on the Reverend's legacy, allow some pods to stay on the vine until they turn pale yellow and then brittle brown. The dark-brown, shiny seeds inside will be ready to save for next year's garden.</li>
</ul>
<hr data-line="59">
<h3 id="🥗 Culinary Inspiration: The Old-Fashioned Snap" data-line="61">🥗 Culinary Inspiration: The Old-Fashioned Snap</h3>
The Connecticut Wonder is best enjoyed simply. Because the pods are so naturally juicy, they are excellent when steamed lightly and tossed with butter and a pinch of salt. The slight stringiness adds a traditional "bite" and texture that is highly prized by those who prefer the robust character of authentic heirloom beans over modern, "mass-market" varieties.
<blockquote data-line="64">
Garden Tip: Plant these in a spot where you can observe the bees! It’s a wonderful reminder of the history of this bean to see the descendants of the pollinators that first "created" this variety over a century ago. 🫘🐝✨
</blockquote>

Connecticut Wonder Bean, 1919 Heirloom, Organic options available

Firefly Farm 25 Seeds

Firefly Farm 50 Seeds

Seedsavers Exchange 50 Organic Seeds

The Seed Savers Exchange - This pole snap bean boasts excellent flavor and texture and remains crunchy and juicy for an extended period of time. Early- to mid-season maturing plants are strong climbers and producers; seeds have good flavor and texture as a dry bean too. This variety was donated to Seed Savers Exchange in 2014 by Paris Fortner of Erie, Michigan, who received its seeds in the 1990s from the daughter of Dallas Edwards (the Tennessee woman for whom the variety is named). Characteristics: Pole bean Donated to SSE in 2014 Crunchy and juicy Very productive Snap or dry bean 52 days Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry. Direct Seed: 2" Apart Seed Depth: 1" Support: Trellis, tepee, or fencing Light: Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

The Seed Savers Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">This pole snap bean boasts excellent flavor and texture and remains crunchy and juicy for an extended period of time. Early- to mid-season maturing plants are strong climbers and producers; seeds have good flavor and texture as a dry bean too. This variety was donated to Seed Savers Exchange in 2014 by Paris Fortner of Erie, Michigan, who received its seeds in the 1990s from the daughter of Dallas Edwards (the Tennessee woman for whom the variety is named).  
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Pole bean </li>
<li>Donated to SSE in 2014 </li>
<li>Crunchy and juicy </li>
<li>Very productive </li>
<li>Snap or dry bean </li>
<li>52 days </li>
</ul>
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry.
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed: 2" Apart </li>
<li>Seed Depth: 1" </li>
<li>Support: Trellis, tepee, or fencing </li>
<li>Light: Full Sun </li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

Dallas Edwards Bean, Heirloom

Default Title

🐉 Dragon Tongue Bean (Heirloom) The Dutch Masterpiece of the Bean World The Dragon Tongue Bean (also known as Dragon's Tongue) is arguably the most beautiful and versatile bean you can grow. This Dutch heirloom is famous for its flat, creamy-yellow pods heavily streaked with vivid purple "dragon" stripes. Whether you eat them fresh as a succulent snap bean or let them mature into a rich, nutty shelling bean, this variety is a triple threat: stunning in the garden, prolific in yield, and gourmet in flavor. 📜 Historical Heritage & Origin The Dragon Tongue (aka Dragon Langerie) is a classic Dutch Heirloom dating back to the 18th or 19th century in the Netherlands. In Europe, it is often classified as a "Horticultural" or "Wax" bean. Historically, it was bred for the small-scale intensive gardens of Europe where space was at a premium. Gardeners needed a "dual-purpose" bean—one that could provide tender, stringless pods for summer meals and, if left on the vine, high-protein dried beans for winter storage. Its striking purple-on-yellow coloration was not just for beauty; it made the pods incredibly easy to spot among the green foliage during harvest. It was introduced to the American market in the late 19th century and has since become a staple for heirloom enthusiasts and "slow food" advocates. ✨ Product Highlights Stunning Appearance: Pale yellow pods with dramatic maroon-purple stripes that look like fire on a dragon’s tongue. Superior Flavor: Exceptionally sweet, juicy, and completely stringless when harvested young. Dual-Purpose: Use it as a fresh snap bean or wait for the pods to dry to harvest the seeds as delicious shelling beans (similar to a pinto or navy bean). Compact Growth: A bush-type bean that doesn't require trellising, making it perfect for small gardens or large containers. 🛠️ Quick Growth Profile Feature Specifications Plant Type Annual (Heirloom Bush Bean) Pod Length 6 to 8 inches Days to Maturity 55 Days (Snap) / 90 Days (Dry) Sun Requirement Full Sun (6-8 hours) Plant Height 12 to 24 inches Growth Habit Self-supporting Bush 🌱 How to Grow Dragon Tongue Beans 1. When to Plant:Beans are very sensitive to cold. Direct sow seeds outdoors only after all danger of frost has passed and the soil is warm (at least 60°F). 2. Sowing the Seeds: Sow seeds 1 inch deep. Space seeds 2–4 inches apart in rows. Keep rows about 18–24 inches apart. Note: Do not soak bean seeds before planting, as this can lead to cracking and poor germination. 3. Soil & Water: Beans prefer well-draining soil and do not require heavy fertilization (they "fix" their own nitrogen). Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially while the plants are flowering and developing pods. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid getting the leaves wet, which can spread disease. 4. Harvesting Stages: For Snap Beans: Harvest when the pods are 6 inches long and the purple stripes are most vibrant. The pods should be flat and the seeds inside barely visible. For Shelling/Dry Beans: Leave the pods on the bush until they turn shriveled and brittle. 🍳 Culinary Note The most magical (and sometimes disappointing!) part of the Dragon Tongue bean is that the purple stripes disappear when cooked, leaving the bean a solid, buttery yellow. To preserve the striking purple color, serve them raw in salads or very lightly blanch them for only a few seconds before shocking them in ice water. Garden Tip: The more you harvest, the more the plant produces! Check your bushes every 2-3 days during the peak of the season to ensure you don't miss the tender "snap" window. 🧺

<h2 data-line="0" id="🐉 Dragon Tongue Bean (Heirloom)">🐉 Dragon Tongue Bean (Heirloom)</h2>
The Dutch Masterpiece of the Bean World
The Dragon Tongue Bean (also known as Dragon's Tongue) is arguably the most beautiful and versatile bean you can grow. This Dutch heirloom is famous for its flat, creamy-yellow pods heavily streaked with vivid purple "dragon" stripes. Whether you eat them fresh as a succulent snap bean or let them mature into a rich, nutty shelling bean, this variety is a triple threat: stunning in the garden, prolific in yield, and gourmet in flavor.
<hr data-line="5">
<h3 data-line="7" id="📜 Historical Heritage &amp; Origin">📜 Historical Heritage &amp; Origin</h3>
The Dragon Tongue (aka Dragon Langerie) is a classic Dutch Heirloom dating back to the 18th or 19th century in the Netherlands. In Europe, it is often classified as a "Horticultural" or "Wax" bean.
Historically, it was bred for the small-scale intensive gardens of Europe where space was at a premium. Gardeners needed a "dual-purpose" bean—one that could provide tender, stringless pods for summer meals and, if left on the vine, high-protein dried beans for winter storage. Its striking purple-on-yellow coloration was not just for beauty; it made the pods incredibly easy to spot among the green foliage during harvest. It was introduced to the American market in the late 19th century and has since become a staple for heirloom enthusiasts and "slow food" advocates.
<hr data-line="12">
<h3 data-line="14" id="✨ Product Highlights">✨ Product Highlights</h3>
<ul data-line="15">
<li data-line="15">
Stunning Appearance: Pale yellow pods with dramatic maroon-purple stripes that look like fire on a dragon’s tongue.</li>
<li data-line="16">
Superior Flavor: Exceptionally sweet, juicy, and completely stringless when harvested young.</li>
<li data-line="17">
Dual-Purpose: Use it as a fresh snap bean or wait for the pods to dry to harvest the seeds as delicious shelling beans (similar to a pinto or navy bean).</li>
<li data-line="18">
Compact Growth: A bush-type bean that doesn't require trellising, making it perfect for small gardens or large containers.</li>
</ul>
<hr data-line="20">
<h3 data-line="22" id="🛠️ Quick Growth Profile">🛠️ Quick Growth Profile</h3>
<table data-line="23">
<thead data-line="23">
<tr data-line="23">
<th>Feature</th>
<th>Specifications</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody data-line="25">
<tr data-line="25">
<td>Plant Type</td>
<td>Annual (Heirloom Bush Bean)</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="26">
<td>Pod Length</td>
<td>6 to 8 inches</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="27">
<td>Days to Maturity</td>
<td>55 Days (Snap) / 90 Days (Dry)</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="28">
<td>Sun Requirement</td>
<td>Full Sun (6-8 hours)</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="29">
<td>Plant Height</td>
<td>12 to 24 inches</td>
</tr>
<tr data-line="30">
<td>Growth Habit</td>
<td>Self-supporting Bush</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<hr data-line="32">
<h3 data-line="34" id="🌱 How to Grow Dragon Tongue Beans">🌱 How to Grow Dragon Tongue Beans</h3>
1. When to Plant: Beans are very sensitive to cold. Direct sow seeds outdoors only after all danger of frost has passed and the soil is warm (at least 60°F).
2. Sowing the Seeds:
<ul data-line="40">
<li data-line="40">Sow seeds 1 inch deep.</li>
<li data-line="41">Space seeds 2–4 inches apart in rows.</li>
<li data-line="42">Keep rows about 18–24 inches apart.</li>
<li data-line="43">
Note: Do not soak bean seeds before planting, as this can lead to cracking and poor germination.</li>
</ul>
3. Soil &amp; Water:
<ul data-line="46">
<li data-line="46">Beans prefer well-draining soil and do not require heavy fertilization (they "fix" their own nitrogen).</li>
<li data-line="47">
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially while the plants are flowering and developing pods. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid getting the leaves wet, which can spread disease.</li>
</ul>
4. Harvesting Stages:
<ul data-line="50">
<li data-line="50">
For Snap Beans: Harvest when the pods are 6 inches long and the purple stripes are most vibrant. The pods should be flat and the seeds inside barely visible.</li>
<li data-line="51">
For Shelling/Dry Beans: Leave the pods on the bush until they turn shriveled and brittle.</li>
</ul>
<hr data-line="53">
<h3 data-line="55" id="🍳 Culinary Note">🍳 Culinary Note</h3>
The most magical (and sometimes disappointing!) part of the Dragon Tongue bean is that the purple stripes disappear when cooked, leaving the bean a solid, buttery yellow. To preserve the striking purple color, serve them raw in salads or very lightly blanch them for only a few seconds before shocking them in ice water.
<blockquote data-line="58">
Garden Tip: The more you harvest, the more the plant produces! Check your bushes every 2-3 days during the peak of the season to ensure you don't miss the tender "snap" window. 🧺
</blockquote>

Dragon Langerie or Dragon's Tongue Bush Bean, Organic options available

Firefly Farm 50 Organic Seeds

Seedsavers Dragon Tongue 50 Seeds

The Seed Savers Exchange - Easternshore Butterbean is a lima bean. This is a new one for me so I am going to have to wait until Seedsavers releases more information. 50 seeds per packet Instructions - Lima beans thrive in hot temperatures. Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Seeds will germinate in 7-18 days. Limas prefer full sun. Direct Seed 2" apart Planting Depth 1" Rows Apart: 36-48" Full Sun

The Seed Savers Exchange - Easternshore Butterbean is a lima bean. This is a new one for me so I am going to have to wait until Seedsavers releases more information. 
<ul>
<li>50 seeds per packet </li>
</ul>
Instructions -
<meta charset="utf-8">
Lima beans thrive in hot temperatures. Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Seeds will germinate in 7-18 days. Limas prefer full sun. 
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed 2" apart</li>
<li>Planting Depth 1"</li>
<li>Rows Apart: 36-48"</li>
<li>Full Sun</li>
</ul>
<meta charset="utf-8">

Eastern Shore Butterbean, Lima, Heirloom

Seed Exchange - Our very best snap bean for fresh eating, freezing, or processing, the Empress bean offers incredible flavor. The vigorous plants produce heavy yields of large, straight, green, 5-6” stringless pods. Plant in succession for fresh beans throughout the season. Introduced by Gurney’s in 1979 as Experimental Bean 121 and later renamed Empress. Bush habit, snap, 55 days BEST SELLER Organic Our best fresh-eating snap bean Bush habit 5-6" stringless pods Heavy yields Snap bean 55 days 50 seeds Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields. Direct Seed 2" apart Planting Depth 1" Rows 36-48" apart

Seed Exchange - Our very best snap bean for fresh eating, freezing, or processing, the Empress bean offers incredible flavor. The vigorous plants produce heavy yields of large, straight, green, 5-6” stringless pods. Plant in succession for fresh beans throughout the season. Introduced by Gurney’s in 1979 as Experimental Bean 121 and later renamed Empress. Bush habit, snap, 55 days
<ul>
<li>
BEST SELLER 
</li>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Our best fresh-eating snap bean</li>
<li>Bush habit</li>
<li>5-6" stringless pods</li>
<li>Heavy yields</li>
<li>Snap bean</li>
<li>55 days</li>
<li>50 seeds</li>
</ul>
Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields.
Direct Seed 2" apart
Planting Depth 1"
Rows 36-48" apart

Empress Bush Bean, Organic

Fat Goose Pole Bean - The yields are impressive! A pole beam used as dry primarily but can be eaten as a snap bean if harvested young. The beans are tan and are round, flat but thick. The vine grows around 6-8' tall and is a heavy producer. This bean is grown at Firefly Farm in our heirloom production garden. The origin of this bean comes from Seedsavers Exchange who received it from John Withee of Lynnfield, Massachusetts in 1981. We mentioned John Withee in out listings, like others seed collectors, to help show the work that was done. John received it from Dorotha Shortridge in the 1970's when she lived in Indiana. Pole bean Open-Pollinated High Producing Snap bean 60 days Grown at Firefly Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields. Direct Seed 3-4" apart, we like to thin to 6-8" Plant 1" deep Plant Rows 36-48" apart if doing rows. Full sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)

Fat Goose Pole Bean - The yields are impressive! A pole beam used as dry primarily but can be eaten as a snap bean if harvested young. The beans are tan and are round, flat but thick. The vine grows around 6-8' tall and is a heavy producer. This bean is grown at Firefly Farm in our heirloom production garden. 
The origin of this bean comes from Seedsavers Exchange who received it from John Withee of Lynnfield, Massachusetts in 1981. We mentioned John Withee in out listings, like others seed collectors, to help show the work that was done. John received it from Dorotha Shortridge in the 1970's when she lived in Indiana. 
<ul>
<li>Pole bean</li>
<li>Open-Pollinated</li>
<li>High Producing</li>
<li>Snap bean</li>
<li>60 days</li>
<li>Grown at Firefly</li>
</ul>
Instructions -
<meta charset="utf-8">
Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields.
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed 3-4" apart, we like to thin to 6-8"</li>
<li>Plant 1" deep</li>
<li>Plant Rows 36-48" apart if doing rows. </li>
<li>Full sun </li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability
We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at <a href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables">Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)</a>

Fat Goose Pole Bean, Heirloom, John Withee

Firefly Farm Packet - 25 Seeds (8-10' row)

Firefly Farm Packet - 10 Seeds

Sweet Lorane Fava Beans are a rare treat in the fava bean world. We are glad to offer them. They are slightly smaller than your Broad Windsor and sweeter. The skins contain less tanins thus removing much of the bitter flavor, favas can be known for. They are a more modern open-pollinted variety from the 1980's, As with all favas they do not care for the heat and can tolerate cold temperatures down to zero degrees hence why it is important to sow in early spring when peas, lettuces, kales can be sown. Favas feed the soil and are often used as a cover crop as well. Bush Bean Open Pollinated 65-100 days 25 seeds Grown on Small Farms Instructions - Plant in fall in mild climates or plant as soon as the soil is workable as its hardy down to 10 degrees F. Direct Seed 6-8" apart Planting Depth 1-2" We like to space them 8" at least to allow good air circulation in case late spring is warmer than usual Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Sweet Lorane Fava Beans are a rare treat in the fava bean world.  We are glad to offer them. They are slightly smaller than your Broad Windsor and sweeter. The skins contain less tanins thus removing much of the bitter flavor, favas can be known for. They are a more modern open-pollinted variety from the 1980's, As with all favas they do not care for the heat and can tolerate cold temperatures down to zero degrees hence why it is important to sow in early spring when peas, lettuces, kales can be sown. Favas feed the soil and are often used as a cover crop as well. 
<ul>
<li>Bush Bean</li>
<li>Open Pollinated</li>
<li>65-100 days</li>
<li>25 seeds</li>
<li>Grown on Small Farms</li>
</ul>
Instructions - Plant in fall in mild climates or plant as soon as the soil is workable as its hardy down to 10 degrees F. 
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed 6-8" apart</li>
<li>Planting Depth 1-2"</li>
<li>We like to space them 8" at least to allow good air circulation in case late spring is warmer than usual</li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Fava Bean Sweet Lorane

The Seed Exchange - This historic French string bean bears delicious, slender pods and does well in cool soil. This variety’s tiny gourmet green beans are best eaten when picked every 2 or 3 days, while still very young and before any strings develop. Bush habit, snap, 50-60 days. ± 1,1000 seeds/lb Bush bean Open-Pollinated Tolerates cool soil Snap bean 50 Seeds per pacl Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields. Direct Seed 2" apart Plant 1" deep Plant Rows 36-48" apart Full sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability We are always adding new varitities so please check back often at Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)

The Seed Exchange - This historic French string bean bears delicious, slender pods and does well in cool soil. This variety’s tiny gourmet green beans are best eaten when picked every 2 or 3 days, while still very young and before any strings develop. Bush habit, snap, 50-60 days. ± 1,1000 seeds/lb
<li>Bush bean </li>
<li>Open-Pollinated</li>
<li>Tolerates cool soil </li>
<li>Snap bean</li>
<li>50 Seeds per pacl</li>
 
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields.
Direct Seed 2" apart 
Plant 1" deep
Plant Rows 36-48" apart
Full sun 
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability
We are always adding new varitities so please check back often at <a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables" data-mce-href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables">Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)</a>

Fin de Bagnol Bush Bean, Heirloom

Flat, medium green pods on 21" productive, bush habit plants. Plants produce plentiful harvests of flat pods with rounded edges that are tender and smooth. Fruit set occurs high on the 21" tall bush, making for easy harvesting. This flat bean is known as a Kentucky Wonder type, which originally came out as a pole bean and was later developed into a bush bean. The pod is not as wide as the Roma II but it is thicker and juicier. White seeds. From Pure Line Seeds. Vigorous bush 5.5-6" pods Open-Pollinated 1 ounce of seeds Disease Resistance DetailsIntermediate Resistance: Halo Blight, Rust Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after 2-3 weeks of last frost as beans do like the ground to be warmer. Direct Seed 1-5" apart Planting Depth 1/2 -1" Thin 3-5" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Flat, medium green pods on 21" productive, bush habit plants.
Plants produce plentiful harvests of flat pods with rounded edges that are tender and smooth. Fruit set occurs high on the 21" tall bush, making for easy harvesting. This flat bean is known as a Kentucky Wonder type, which originally came out as a pole bean and was later developed into a bush bean. The pod is not as wide as the Roma II but it is thicker and juicier. White seeds. From Pure Line Seeds.
<ul>
<li>Vigorous bush</li>
<li>5.5-6" pods</li>
<li>Open-Pollinated</li>
<li>1 ounce of seeds</li>
</ul>
Disease Resistance Details Intermediate Resistance: Halo Blight, Rust
Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after 2-3 weeks of last frost as beans do like the ground to be warmer.
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed 1-5" apart</li>
<li>Planting Depth 1/2 -1"</li>
<li>Thin 3-5" apart</li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Forrester Romano Bush Bean, Organic

Back in stock for the upcoming season. Our French Gold Pole Beans never last very long and Renee's always tends to run out before the growing season for zones 4-6 so do get your orders in for these classic. Renee's Garden - Golden-yellow long, slim juicy French filet pole beans with a fine sweet flavor. Sunny pods stand out from green vines for easy harvesting. Great garden performance and yield over a long season. A real treat that is great raw or cooked. This slimmer heirloom us very tender and sweet. They will be sure to be a big hit. Characteristics: Organic Heirloom selection Elegant round and slender pods Juicy texture and fine sweet flavor ~40 seeds, 20g Instructions - In late spring, plant seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Erect strong stakes, tripod poles, or trellis at planting time to support vines. Plant 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart along a trellis. Or grow around tripods or stakes, planting 4 to 6 seeds about 4 inches from each pole, then thinning seedlings to 3 best plants per pole. Beans are an easy and reliable crop, but don’t plant seeds too early; cold conditions prevent good germination. For the best yields, pick beans frequently, at least every 2 or 3 days. Filet beans are meant to be eaten when pods are slender, so harvest early, when still pencil-thin. Plant in: May-June for cold winters or March-June for mild winters Full sun Sow Seeds: 4" apart, 1" deep 7-10 days to germinate Days to Harvest: 60 Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability.

Back in stock for the upcoming season. Our French Gold Pole Beans never last very long and Renee's always tends to run out before the growing season for zones 4-6 so do get your orders in for these classic. 
Renee's Garden - <meta charset="utf-8">Golden-yellow long, slim juicy French filet pole beans with a fine sweet flavor. Sunny pods stand out from green vines for easy harvesting. Great garden performance and yield over a long season.
A real treat that is great raw or cooked.  This slimmer heirloom us very tender and sweet. They will be sure to be a big hit. 
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Organic  
</li>
<li>Heirloom selection  </li>
<li>Elegant round and slender pods  
</li>
<li>Juicy texture and fine sweet flavor </li>
<li>~40 seeds, 20g </li>
</ul>
Instructions - In late spring, <meta charset="utf-8">plant seeds in well-worked, fertile soil in full sun. Erect strong stakes, tripod poles, or trellis at planting time to support vines. Plant 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart along a trellis. Or grow around tripods or stakes, planting 4 to 6 seeds about 4 inches from each pole, then thinning seedlings to 3 best plants per pole. <meta charset="utf-8">Beans are an easy and reliable crop, but don’t plant seeds too early; cold conditions prevent good germination. <meta charset="utf-8">For the best yields, pick beans frequently, at least every 2 or 3 days. Filet beans are meant to be eaten when pods are slender, so harvest early, when still pencil-thin. 
<ul>
<li>Plant in: May-June for cold winters or March-June for mild winters</li>
<li>Full sun </li>
<li>Sow Seeds: 4" apart, 1" deep </li>
<li>7-10 days to germinate </li>
<li>Days to Harvest: 60 </li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability.

French Gold Filet Pole Bean, Heirloom

Organic

Conventional

This beloved lima is not being offered in 2026. We enjoyed eating it so much we did not save much seed so we will grow it for others to enjoy this year. The Seed Savers Exchange - Seed Savers Exchange staff gave this vigorously climbing lima bean top marks! Its sweet, moist, and juicy beans have a distinctive, buttery taste and a smooth, creamy texture. Seed Savers Exchange received this variety in 1994 from William Rastetter of Indiana, who in turn acquired it sometime before 1968 from a friend named Flossie (Canfield) Drake, also of Indiana. These lima beans were likely grown by Flossie's mother, Margaret (Mendel) Canfield, in Dearborn County, Indiana, in the late 1800s. This variety matured late when grown at SSE's Heritage Farm in northeast Iowa. Pole habitat. 60-79 days. Organic. 50 seeds per packet Instructions - Lima beans thrive in hot temperatures. Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Seeds will germinate in 7-18 days. Limas prefer full sun. Direct Seed 2" apart Planting Depth 1" Rows Apart: 36-48" Full Sun

This beloved lima is not being offered in 2026. We enjoyed eating it so much we did not save much seed so we will grow it for others to enjoy this year. 
The Seed Savers Exchange - Seed Savers Exchange staff gave this vigorously climbing lima bean top marks! Its sweet, moist, and juicy beans have a distinctive, buttery taste and a smooth, creamy texture. Seed Savers Exchange received this variety in 1994 from William Rastetter of Indiana, who in turn acquired it sometime before 1968 from a friend named Flossie (Canfield) Drake, also of Indiana. These lima beans were likely grown by Flossie's mother, Margaret (Mendel) Canfield, in Dearborn County, Indiana, in the late 1800s. This variety matured late when grown at SSE's Heritage Farm in northeast Iowa. Pole habitat. 60-79 days. Organic.
<ul>
<li>50 seeds per packet </li>
</ul>
Instructions -
<meta charset="utf-8">
Lima beans thrive in hot temperatures. Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Seeds will germinate in 7-18 days. Limas prefer full sun. 
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed 2" apart</li>
<li>Planting Depth 1"</li>
<li>Rows Apart: 36-48"</li>
<li>Full Sun</li>
</ul>
<meta charset="utf-8">

German Butterbean, Lima, 1800's Heirloom

High Mowing Organic Seeds - Early variety with a concentrated harvest perfect for preserving. Lemon-yellow pods with green tips are round, straight, and tender. Fine flavor and crisp texture ideal for pickling or Lacto-fermenting. Pods hang in clusters around the main stem, making them easy to pick. White seeds. Characteristics: Organic, non-GMO, and open-pollinated Concentrated harvest Holds well 4-5" pods High-disease resistance 1 oz of seeds Instructions - Beans only require average fertility and prefer pH in the 6.0 - 6.8 range. Choose well-drained, warm soils and use inoculants to increase yields where natural Rhizobia populations are low. The optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and are prone to rot if temperatures are below 55°F. Harvest early and often to increase yields. Remove oversized beans to maintain pod production. Beans are ready for storage when the seed coat can not be dented by a fingernail. Store beans in a cool dry place. Sow 1-2" Deep Space 6" apart in rows; use single or double rows with 12" between, and 4' center beds with trellis in the middle Days to maturity are from direct seeding after all danger of frost has passed Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

High Mowing Organic Seeds - Early variety with a concentrated harvest perfect for preserving.
Lemon-yellow pods with green tips are round, straight, and tender. Fine flavor and crisp texture ideal for pickling or Lacto-fermenting. Pods hang in clusters around the main stem, making them easy to pick. White seeds.
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Organic, non-GMO, and open-pollinated </li>
<li>Concentrated harvest </li>
<li>Holds well </li>
<li>4-5" pods </li>
<li>High-disease resistance </li>
<li>1 oz of seeds</li>
</ul>
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Beans only require average fertility and prefer pH in the 6.0 - 6.8 range. Choose well-drained, warm soils and use inoculants to increase yields where natural Rhizobia populations are low. The optimal soil temperature for germination is 75-95°F. Beans are particularly sensitive to cool soils and are prone to rot if temperatures are below 55°F. <meta charset="utf-8">Harvest early and often to increase yields. Remove oversized beans to maintain pod production. Beans are ready for storage when the seed coat can not be dented by a fingernail. Store beans in a cool dry place. 
<ul>
<li>Sow 1-2" Deep</li>
<li>Space 6" apart in rows; use single or double rows with 12" between, and 4' center beds with trellis in the middle  
</li>
<li>Days to maturity are from direct seeding after all danger of frost has passed </li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability

Gold Rush Yellow Wax Bean, Organic

The Living Seed Company -This wonderful heirloom bean is considered to be one of the oldest wax beans and was believed to have been introduced around the 1870's! Known for its rich buttery flavor, stringless properties and delicious taste! This steady and productive bush bean variety will keep continue to provide excellent yields! Excellent for preservation in canning, freezing and as a dry shelly bean! Organic Stringless Bush Bean 15-24" tall 50-65 days 40 seeds Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after 2-3 weeks of last frost as beans do like the ground to be warmer. Direct Seed 3-6" apart Planting Depth 1/4' Thin 6" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

The Living Seed Company -This wonderful heirloom bean is considered to be one of the oldest wax beans and was believed to have been introduced around the 1870's!
Known for its rich buttery flavor, stringless properties and delicious taste!  This steady and productive bush bean variety will keep continue to provide excellent yields!  Excellent for preservation in canning, freezing and as a dry shelly bean!
<ul>
<li>Organic</li>
<li>Stringless 
</li>
<li>Bush Bean 15-24" tall</li>
<li>50-65 days</li>
<li>40 seeds</li>
</ul>
Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after 2-3 weeks of last frost as beans do like the ground to be warmer.
Direct Seed 3-6" apart
Planting Depth 1/4'
Thin 6" apart 
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Golden Wax Bean, 1870's Heirloom, Organic

The Seed Exchange - One of the 1,186 beans given to SSE in 1981 by bean collector John Withee of Massachusetts. Named for Carrie Belle Stallard of Wise County, Virginia. This variety dates to at least the 1930s. Maroon beans splashed with white, 5-6 seeds per pod. Wonderful rich meaty flavor, great for soups. Very productive. Pole habit, dry, 85-95 days. ±680 seeds/lb. Pole bean Maroon and white beans Open Pollinated Meaty flavor Very productive Dry bean 85-95 days 50 Seeds per packet Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry. Direct Seed 2" apart Plant 1" deep Support: Trellis, tepee, or fencing Full sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability We are always adding new varitities so please check back often at Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)

The Seed Exchange - One of the 1,186 beans given to SSE in 1981 by bean collector John Withee of Massachusetts. Named for Carrie Belle Stallard of Wise County, Virginia. This variety dates to at least the 1930s. Maroon beans splashed with white, 5-6 seeds per pod. Wonderful rich meaty flavor, great for soups. Very productive. Pole habit, dry, 85-95 days. ±680 seeds/lb. 
<ul>
<li>Pole bean </li>
<li>Maroon and white beans </li>
<li>Open Pollinated</li>
<li>Meaty flavor </li>
<li>Very productive </li>
<li>Dry bean </li>
<li>85-95 days</li>
<li>50 Seeds per packet</li>
</ul>
Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry.
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed 2" apart</li>
<li>Plant 1" deep</li>
<li>Support: Trellis, tepee, or fencing</li>
<li>Full sun </li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability
We are always adding new varitities so please check back often at <a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables">Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)</a>

Good Mother Stallard Pole Bean, 1930's Heirloom

Seedsavers Exchange- 50 Seeds

Firefly Farm Minipack - 15 Seeds ( 5' row)

We love having this pure white lima bean, especially since Seiva Pole Beans are not available this year. Dwarf Sieva or Henderson Lima Beans were brought to market by 1889 by Peter Henderson Company of New York. It is quite disease resistance and is the same creamy limas that folks love about Sievas (just a little shorter) Bush habit, 60-75 days. Characteristics: Bush bean Seeds are white and small Disease resistant Shelling and Dry bean 60-75 days 1/2 ounce of seeds per packet Instructions - Lima beans thrive in hot temperatures. Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Seeds will germinate in 7-18 days. Limas prefer full sun. Direct Seed 2" apart Planting Depth 1" Rows Apart: 36-48" Full Sun

We love having this pure white lima bean, especially since Seiva Pole Beans are not available this year.  Dwarf Sieva or Henderson Lima Beans were brought to market by 1889 by Peter Henderson Company of New York. It is quite disease resistance and is the same creamy limas that folks love about Sievas (just a little shorter)  Bush habit, 60-75 days. 
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Bush bean</li>
<li>Seeds are white and small</li>
<li>Disease resistant</li>
<li>Shelling and Dry bean</li>
<li>60-75 days</li>
<li>1/2 ounce of seeds per packet </li>
</ul>
Instructions -
<meta charset="utf-8">
Lima beans thrive in hot temperatures. Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Seeds will germinate in 7-18 days. Limas prefer full sun. 
Direct Seed 2" apart
Planting Depth 1"
<meta charset="utf-8">
Rows Apart: 36-48"
Full Sun

Henderson Bush Lima Bean, 1889 Heirloom - Organic and Conventional Available

Seedsaver's Exchange - Conventional (~40 seeds)

Southern Exposure Seed Exchange - Organic 1/2oz of 30 seeds

The Seed Savers Exchange - Also called Hidatsa Indian Red, this variety was originally grown by the Hidatsa tribe in the Missouri River Valley of North Dakota. In 1915, it was introduced to commerce in Oscar Will’s Pioneer Indian Collection of seeds. The dark-red seeds are reminiscent of kidney beans, and the productive, sprawling bush plants will climb to 3' if given support. Bush habit, dry, 80-100 days. ±1,300 seeds/lb Bush bean Sprawling bush plants will climb to three feet if supported Dark red seeds Dry bean 50 Seeds per packet Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest snap beans frequently for increased yields. Leave some pods on the vine and harvest when completely mature for dry beans. Direct Seed 2" apart Plant 1" deep Plant Rows 36-48" apart Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)

The Seed Savers Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">Also called Hidatsa Indian Red, this variety was originally grown by the Hidatsa tribe in the Missouri River Valley of North Dakota. In 1915, it was introduced to commerce in Oscar Will’s Pioneer Indian Collection of seeds. The dark-red seeds are reminiscent of kidney beans, and the productive, sprawling bush plants will climb to 3' if given support. Bush habit, dry, 80-100 days. ±1,300 seeds/lb
<li>Bush bean </li>
<li>Sprawling bush plants will climb to three feet if supported </li>
<li>Dark red seeds </li>
<li>Dry bean </li>
<li>50 Seeds per packet</li>
  
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest snap beans frequently for increased yields. Leave some pods on the vine and harvest when completely mature for dry beans.
Direct Seed 2" apart 
Plant 1" deep
Plant Rows 36-48" apart
Full Sun 
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability
We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at <a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables" data-mce-href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables">Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)</a>

Hidatsa Red Bean, pre-1915 Heirloom

Seedsaver Exchange 50 Seeds

Firefly Farm 250 Seeds

From the Hidatsa tribe who raised corn, squash, beans, and sunflowers in the Missouri River Valley of North Dakota. Shield Figure beans are described in Buffalo Bird Woman’s Garden (1917). This very productive variety was boarded onto Slow Food USA’s Ark of Taste in 2005. Pole habit, dry, 90 days. ±600 seeds/lb. Pole bean White beans with tan and brown markings Open-Pollinated Very productive Dry bean 90 days Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry. Direct Seed 2" apart Plant 1" deep Support using Trellis, tepee, or fencing Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)

From the Hidatsa tribe who raised corn, squash, beans, and sunflowers in the Missouri River Valley of North Dakota. Shield Figure beans are described in Buffalo Bird Woman’s Garden (1917). This very productive variety was boarded onto Slow Food USA’s Ark of Taste in 2005. Pole habit, dry, 90 days. ±600 seeds/lb.
<li>Pole bean</li>
<li>White beans with tan and brown markings</li>
<li>Open-Pollinated</li>
<li>Very productive</li>
<li>Dry bean</li>
<li>90 days</li>
 
Instructions -
<meta charset="utf-8">
Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry.
Direct Seed 2" apart 
Plant 1" deep
<meta charset="utf-8">
Support using Trellis, tepee, or fencing
Full Sun 
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability
We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at <a href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables" data-mce-fragment="1">Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)</a>

Hidatsa Shield Figure Bean, pre-1917 Heirloom

Seedsavers Exchange 50 Seeds

Firefly Farm 20 Seeds (8' row)

Hopi Yellow Lima Bean - I love the color as it adds to the rainbow of limas so we grow it. It varies in production but since we get more dry spells. I wanted a lima that would thrive in drought. We grow this variety in our heirloom gardens at Firefly Farm & Mercantile in Cashton, Wisconsin. Hopi Yellow is a pre-colonial landrace lima stewarded by the Hopi Nation. The lima does well in dry conditions and prefers a longer season than our zone 4 garden but we still get a decent harvest. If in a dry climate with 140 days of growing frost free, you would get a wonderful yield. Characteristics: High Drought Resistance Prolific producer Pole Lima bean 95 days for eating, 130 for dried We offer it in minipacks or packs of 25. Instructions: Lima beans thrive in hot temperatures. Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Seeds will germinate in 7-18 days. Limas prefer full sun. Direct Seed 2-3" apart or 6" apart if you want to skip thinning. We hold a few seeds back in case we have any gaps. Planting Depth 1" Rows Apart: 48-72" or we just run them down our fence line. Full Sun

Hopi Yellow Lima Bean - I love the color as it adds to the rainbow of limas so we grow it. It varies in production but since we get more dry spells. I wanted a lima that would thrive in drought. 
We grow this variety in our heirloom gardens at Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile in Cashton, Wisconsin. 
Hopi Yellow is a pre-colonial landrace lima stewarded by the Hopi Nation. The lima does well in dry conditions and prefers a longer season than our zone 4 garden but we still get a decent harvest. If in a dry climate with 140 days of growing frost free, you would get a wonderful yield. 
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>High Drought Resistance </li>
<li>Prolific producer</li>
<li>Pole Lima bean</li>
<li>95 days for eating, 130 for dried</li>
<li>We offer it in minipacks or packs of 25. </li>
</ul>
Instructions: 
Lima beans thrive in hot temperatures. Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Seeds will germinate in 7-18 days. Limas prefer full sun. 
Direct Seed 2-3" apart or 6" apart if you want to skip thinning. We hold a few seeds back in case we have any gaps. 
Planting Depth 1"
Rows Apart: 48-72" or we just run them down our fence line. 
Full Sun

Hopi Yellow Lima Bean,  Butterbean, pre-colonial Heirloom

Firefly Farm Mini-Packet - 10 Seeds

Firefly Farm Packet - 25 Seeds

Ideal Market Pole Snap Bean - It is a perfect bean for our zone 4 heirloom gardens. We grow it year after year and it is the first pole bean to bear tender pods for eating. Our source for the seed we started with is Seedsavers Exchange. We offer this Ideal Market both in Seedsaver's Exchange retail packets and our Firefly Farm label. Additionally seed in the Firefly label is grown right here in our heirloom gardens. The Seed Savers Exchange - Flawless. An early-producing, stringless pole bean with vines that bear 5"-long snap beans all along its 6'-tall vines. This variety has a fine texture and excellent taste and is suitable for eating fresh or freezing. Introduced to the seed trade in 1914 as Black Creaseback by Van Antwerp’s Seed Store of Mobile, Alabama, it was reintroduced in 1924 by Chris Reuter Seed Company of New Orleans, Louisiana, as Reuter’s Ideal Market. Pole habit, snap, 65-70 days. ±1,900 seeds/lb. Pole bean Stringless pods Open-Pollinated Excellent quality Early and productive Snap bean 65-70 days Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields. Direct Seed 2" apart Plant 1" deep Support using Trellis, tepee, or fencing Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)

Ideal Market Pole Snap Bean - It is a perfect bean for our zone 4 heirloom gardens. We grow it year after year and it is the first pole bean to bear tender pods for eating. Our source for the seed we started with is Seedsavers Exchange. We offer this Ideal Market both in Seedsaver's Exchange retail packets and our Firefly Farm label. Additionally seed in the Firefly label is grown right here in our heirloom gardens. 
The Seed Savers Exchange - <meta charset="utf-8">Flawless. An early-producing, stringless pole bean with vines that bear 5"-long snap beans all along its 6'-tall vines. This variety has a fine texture and excellent taste and is suitable for eating fresh or freezing. Introduced to the seed trade in 1914 as Black Creaseback by Van Antwerp’s Seed Store of Mobile, Alabama, it was reintroduced in 1924 by Chris Reuter Seed Company of New Orleans, Louisiana, as Reuter’s Ideal Market. Pole habit, snap, 65-70 days. ±1,900 seeds/lb.
<ul>
<li>Pole bean</li>
<li>Stringless pods</li>
<li>Open-Pollinated</li>
<li>Excellent quality</li>
<li>Early and productive</li>
<li>Snap bean</li>
<li>65-70 days 
</li>
<li>
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields.
</li>
</ul>
Direct Seed 2" apart 
Plant 1" deep 
<meta charset="utf-8">Support using Trellis, tepee, or fencing
Full Sun 
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability
We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at <a data-mce-fragment="1" href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables">Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)</a>

Ideal Market Pole Snap Bean, 1914 Heirloom, also known as Black Creaseback

Firefly Farm Minipack - 25 Seeds (Grown at Firefly)

Firefly Farm - 50 Seeds (Grown at Firefly)

Seedsavers Exchange - 50 Seeds

Firefly Farm - 250 Seeds (Grown at Firefly)

Jade Bush Bean - Gourmet-quality long, slender, stringless green beans. Commercial yields of glossy medium green beans for fresh market sales or the garden. Large, 18-22" tall plants produce yields comparable to Provider and Strike. Pale green seeds. Heat tolerant 6-7" long pods Open-Pollinated 1 oz of seeds Disease Resistance DetailsHigh Resistance: Bean Common Mosaic VirusIntermediate Resistance: Bacterial Brown Spot, Curly Top Virus, Rust Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after 2-3 weeks of last frost as beans do like the ground to be warmer. Direct Seed 1-5" apart Planting Depth 1/2 -1" Thin 3-5" apart Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Jade Bush Bean - Gourmet-quality long, slender, stringless green beans.
Commercial yields of glossy medium green beans for fresh market sales or the garden. Large, 18-22" tall plants produce yields comparable to Provider and Strike. Pale green seeds.
<ul>
<li>Heat tolerant</li>
<li>6-7" long pods</li>
<li>Open-Pollinated</li>
<li>1 oz of seeds</li>
</ul>
Disease Resistance Details High Resistance: Bean Common Mosaic Virus Intermediate Resistance: Bacterial Brown Spot, Curly Top Virus, Rust
Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after 2-3 weeks of last frost as beans do like the ground to be warmer.
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed 1-5" apart</li>
<li>Planting Depth 1/2 -1"</li>
<li>Thin 3-5" apart</li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Jade Bush Bean, Organic

Producing crunchy, sweet, and fruity snap beans with an apple-grape flavor, this runner bean might unseat your favorite snap bean. In addition to tasting great fresh, the variety produces dry beans with a slightly sweet, earthy flavor and a smooth texture. A strong climber with beautiful flowers, the variety was developed by W. Deal & Sons Ltd., Kelvedon, Essex, England; introduced in 1950; and given to Seed Savers Exchange in 1981 by famed bean collector John Withee. Rarely available in the United States commercial seed trade, it is a marvel to be enjoyed. Characteristics: Red blossoms Unique Scent Beans mature to black and speckled mauve Used for ornamental purposes or as small snap pods or green shell beans Pole bean 75 days 25 seeds per packet Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Runner beans prefer full sun, although they tolerate part shade very well. Young pods can be eaten whole, or the beans can be eaten fresh or dried. Even the flowers are edible. Direct Seed 2" apart Seed Depth: 1" Rows Apart: 24-36" Support: Trellis, tepee, or netting Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Producing crunchy, sweet, and fruity snap beans with an apple-grape flavor, this runner bean might unseat your favorite snap bean. In addition to tasting great fresh, the variety produces dry beans with a slightly sweet, earthy flavor and a smooth texture. A strong climber with beautiful flowers, the variety was developed by W. Deal &amp; Sons Ltd., Kelvedon, Essex, England; introduced in 1950; and given to Seed Savers Exchange in 1981 by famed bean collector John Withee. Rarely available in the United States commercial seed trade, it is a marvel to be enjoyed.
Characteristics: 
<ul>
<li>Red blossoms</li>
<li>Unique Scent</li>
<li>Beans mature to black and speckled mauve</li>
<li>Used for ornamental purposes or as small snap pods or green shell beans</li>
<li>Pole bean</li>
<li>75 days</li>
<li>25 seeds per packet </li>
</ul>
Instructions -
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Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Runner beans prefer full sun, although they tolerate part shade very well. Young pods can be eaten whole, or the beans can be eaten fresh or dried. Even the flowers are edible.
Direct Seed 2" apart
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Seed Depth: 1"
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Rows Apart: 24-36"
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Support: Trellis, tepee, or netting
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability

Kelvedon Runner Bean, 1950 Heirloom, British Origin

The Seedsaver Seed Exchange - An heirloom stringless bean from the 1880's, this one is resistant to rust and has the same 9" long beans the pole bean version has but yields are harvested more quickly. Bush bean Stringless 50 days 50 Seeds per packet Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry. Direct Seed: 2" Apart Seed Depth: 1" Rows Apart: 36-48" Light: Full Sun Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)

The Seedsaver Seed Exchange - An heirloom stringless bean from the 1880's, this one is resistant to rust and has the same 9" long beans the pole bean version has but yields are harvested more quickly. 
<ul>
<li>Bush bean</li>
<li>Stringless 
</li>
<li>50 days</li>
<li>50 Seeds per packet 
</li>
</ul>
Instructions - <meta charset="utf-8">Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest dry beans when the pods are completely mature and dry.
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed: 2" Apart </li>
<li>Seed Depth: 1"</li>
<li>Rows Apart: 36-48"</li>
<li>Light: Full Sun </li>
</ul>
Firefly Farm &amp; Mercantile may substitute suppliers based on availability
We are always adding new varieties so please check back often at <a href="https://fireflyfarmandmercantile.com/pages/seeds-vegetables" data-mce-fragment="1">Seeds - Vegetables (fireflyfarmandmercantile.com)</a>

Kentucky Wonder Bush Bean, 1880's Heirloom

A stringless pole bean that was a market hit! In 1877 Jame J. H. Gregory & Sons brought Texas Pole to market as Kentucky Wonder Pole Bean. The first date we have for this variety is 1864 when it was made avaialble as Texas Pole. Pole bean, 5-7' tall Stringless pods with grat flavor Snap bean 58-64 days 50 seeds Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields. Direct Seed 2" apart Planting Depth 1" Rows Trellis, Support

A stringless pole bean that was a market hit! In 1877 Jame J. H. Gregory &amp; Sons brought Texas Pole to market as Kentucky Wonder Pole Bean.  The first date we have for this variety is 1864 when it was made avaialble as Texas Pole. 
<ul>
<li>Pole bean, 5-7' tall</li>
<li>Stringless pods with grat flavor 
</li>
<li>Snap bean</li>
<li>58-64 days</li>
<li>50 seeds</li>
</ul>
Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields. 
Direct Seed 2" apart
Planting Depth 1"
Rows Trellis, Support

Kentucky Wonder Pole Bean, 1864 Heirloom - Organic and Conventional Available

Seedsaver's Exchange - Conventional

Southern Exposure - Organic

Starts shipping November 15th, 2025! We grew this and watched it all summer and it did not disappoint. We started from seed in the gardens on 6/1 and harvested our first seed 9/29. It produced and produced! We will add more to this story soon. Original Seedstock received from Seed Saver's Exchange - Pole bean, strongly climbing. Straight; constricted; uniformly bright green pods; smooth. Leaves dark green. Fully expanded pods measure 2.9-3.9 and 0.3-0.4 wide. White flowers. Mature pods contain 7 seeds. Small white cuboid shaped seed. Hard seeded. Late maturing snap beans. Moderately high productivity. Donated to SSE in 1981 by bean collector John Withee of Lynnfield, Massachusetts and the Wanigan Associates. John received this variety from Silas Gilliam of Virginia. Silas stated that he received this variety in the early 1960s from Arlie Hubbard of Virginia, who was known for laughing all the time. SSE Accession # 101499 John Withee, 1981 Excellent for fresh eating Snap bean White flowers Pole habit 65-75 days 25 seeds - Will do a 10' row Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields. Direct Seed 2" apart Planting Depth 1" Trellis, Fence, or Tee-Pee Rows 36-48" apart

Starts shipping November 15th, 2025! We grew this and watched it all summer and it did not disappoint. We started from seed in the gardens on 6/1 and harvested our first seed 9/29. It produced and produced! We will add more to this story soon. 
Original Seedstock received from Seed Saver's Exchange - Pole bean, strongly climbing. Straight; constricted; uniformly bright green pods; smooth. Leaves dark green. Fully expanded pods measure 2.9-3.9 and 0.3-0.4 wide. White flowers. Mature pods contain 7 seeds. Small white cuboid shaped seed. Hard seeded. Late maturing snap beans. Moderately high productivity. Donated to SSE in 1981 by bean collector John Withee of Lynnfield, Massachusetts and the Wanigan Associates. 
John received this variety from Silas Gilliam of Virginia. Silas stated that he received this variety in the early 1960s from Arlie Hubbard of Virginia, who was known for laughing all the time. SSE Accession # 101499 John Withee, 1981
<ul>
<li>Excellent for fresh eating</li>
<li>Snap bean</li>
<li>White flowers</li>
<li>Pole habit</li>
<li>65-75 days</li>
<li>25 seeds - Will do a 10' row</li>
</ul>
Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed and soil and air temperatures have warmed. Harvest frequently for increased yields.
<ul>
<li>Direct Seed 2" apart</li>
<li>Planting Depth 1"</li>
<li>Trellis, Fence, or Tee-Pee</li>
<li>Rows 36-48" apart</li>
</ul>

Beans

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