Antigua Bean (Bush)
Phaseolus vulgaris
Approximately 30 seeds per pack.
Germination: ~ 95% Packed for 2025
Origins and History – The Antigua Bush Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is a traditional heirloom variety believed to have roots in the Caribbean, particularly on the island of Antigua, where beans have long been a staple in smallholder and home gardens. Passed down through generations, this variety is valued for its adaptability to warm climates and its reliable yields without the need for staking. Its resilience and productivity made it a favored crop among subsistence farmers and market gardeners, preserving its place in regional food culture.
Appearance and Characteristics – Antigua Bush Bean plants are compact, typically reaching 16–20 inches in height, with lush green foliage and delicate white to pale lavender blossoms. The pods are straight, slender, and medium green, averaging 5–6 inches long. The seeds inside are plump and light-colored, often cream or beige with subtle mottling, depending on maturity stage. The plants mature quickly and produce prolifically over a concentrated harvest period.
Culinary Uses – The Antigua Bush Bean is prized for its tender texture and mild, slightly nutty flavor. Young pods can be enjoyed fresh as snap beans, steamed, stir-fried, or lightly sautéed. The beans can also be left to mature for shelling or dried for long-term storage, where they make a flavorful base for soups, stews, and traditional Caribbean rice-and-bean dishes.
Growing Tips – This warm-season crop thrives in full sun and well-drained soil with moderate fertility. Ideal for USDA Vegetation Zones 5–11, Antigua Bush Beans should be sown directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F. Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 2–3 inches apart, with rows spaced 18–24 inches apart. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, as it encourages leafy growth at the expense of pod production. Regular watering during flowering and pod formation helps ensure high yields.
Harvesting Guidance – For snap beans, harvest when pods are firm, crisp, and about 5–6 inches long, before seeds inside swell significantly. Pick frequently to encourage continued production. If saving for shelling beans, allow pods to fill out fully and begin to dry on the plant before harvesting. For dried beans, wait until pods are completely dry and brittle, then shell and store seeds in a cool, dry place. Frequent and timely harvesting ensures the best flavor and texture.
