West Virginia Heritage Pink Butterbean Pole Bean, Heirloom

This variety is the definition of a true family heirloom. It originated in the ruggedly beautiful Appalachian Mountains and has been grown organically, saved, and selected by Esther Henry in her own garden for many years.

In the Appalachian tradition, the term "Butterbean" refers to the bean’s incredible, rich texture rather than its botanical family. Until now, this bean was only available to those lucky enough to know Esther. By planting these seeds, you are helping to keep a unique mountain legacy alive.

The West Virginia Heritage Pink Butterbean is a fascinating variety that undergoes a dramatic visual transformation as it matures:

1. The Snap Stage (Yellow): Early in the season, the pods are a beautiful, tender yellow. At this stage, they are celebrated for a succulent flavor that "tastes like butter."
2. The Canning Stage (Pink): As the pods mature, they undergo a stunning change, turning a deep, vibrant pink. Esther notes that these make the "best canned beans you’ve ever tasted," holding their rich flavor and firm texture perfectly through the canning process.
3. The Dry Stage (Brown): Once fully matured, the pods become brittle and split open easily to reveal 4 to 6 (or more) mahogany-brown seeds. These are excellent for hearty winter soups.

This is a high-energy climber that requires room to roam. It is a prolific producer that will keep you busy harvesting from mid-summer until the first frost.

"The West Virginia Heritage Pink Butterbean is a reminder of why we save seeds. It is rare to find a bean that is so versatile—offering buttery yellow snaps in July and deep pink canning beans in August. It’s a vigorous mountain survivor that produces a heavy load of pods, ensuring that a single packet can produce thousands of seeds for your family for years to come."

Because this variety can easily climb upwards of 8 feet, we recommend a very sturdy trellis or cattle panel. The seeds exhibit excellent germination and are remarkably fertile.

Heritage Tip: To continue the cycle of this West Virginia treasure, leave a few of your most prolific pink pods to dry completely on the vine. When the pods are "crispy," shell out the brown seeds and store them in a cool, dry place. These seeds are fertile and will germinate well year after year!