Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
A bold and flavorful heirloom, Royalty Purple Pod stands out for its vibrant violet pods, vigorous growth, and excellent taste. Compact, bushy plants grow 18–24 inches tall and produce abundant clusters of straight, stringless pods about 5–6 inches long.
The pods are tender and crisp, with a sweet, classic bean flavor that holds well after cooking. When exposed to heat, their brilliant purple color transforms into a rich green, signaling perfect doneness. Beyond beauty, Royalty Purple Pod is renowned for its resilience—thriving in cooler soils and resisting common diseases like mosaic virus and root rot.
Developed in the 1930s by the New Hampshire Agricultural Experiment Station, this variety quickly earned its place as one of the most dependable early bush beans. Today, Royalty Purple Pod remains a favorite among gardeners for its combination of striking appearance, adaptability, and top-tier flavor.
Location Selection: Choose a location with full sun for optimal growth. Beans thrive in warm, sunny areas.
Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-drained and enriched with organic matter. Beans prefer loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sowing Seeds:
Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly outdoors in late spring after the danger of frost has passed. Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep and 3-4 inches apart in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart.
Germination: Seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days. Maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil during this period.
Care Instructions:
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Beans do not tolerate drought well.
Fertilizing: Beans generally do not require much fertilization as they fix their own nitrogen. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of pod production.
Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pests and Diseases: Beans can be affected by pests such as aphids, bean beetles, and diseases like powdery mildew. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with appropriate organic or chemical controls are recommended.
Special Considerations:
Harvesting: Harvest beans when the pods are young and tender for the best flavor. Regular picking encourages continued production.
How to Grow — Common Bush Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris)
Once your bush beans have sprouted and established their first true leaves, their success depends upon consistent moisture, soil balance, and steady maintenance rather than heavy feeding or pruning. These are quick, productive plants that thrive on moderation and rhythm more than excess.
Soil Health & Root Care
Keep the soil light, open, and evenly moist, never compacted. Bush beans possess shallow, fibrous root systems that suffer from deep cultivation or crusted topsoil. Use mulch or light compost cover to suppress weeds and protect root zones. A half-inch layer of fine compost midseason replenishes nutrients and encourages microbial activity that supports nitrogen fixation at the roots.
Avoid excessive fertilization — bush beans form a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria to create their own nitrogen supply. Overfeeding, especially with nitrogen-rich inputs, promotes dense foliage and delays flowering. Instead, focus on soil biology: earthworms, compost, and organic matter.
Watering & Moisture Regulation
Bush beans demand consistent, even watering through flowering and pod development. Supply roughly 1 to 1¼ inches per week, adjusting for rainfall. Deep watering every few days is far superior to frequent shallow sprinkling. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between sessions to encourage deeper rooting.
Water early in the morning so foliage dries quickly, reducing fungal pressure. If irrigation splashes soil onto leaves, mulch with straw, shredded bark, or aged compost to minimize disease spread. Avoid overhead watering once pods set, as this increases the risk of rust and bacterial blight.
Mulching & Temperature Moderation
Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch once the plants are 6 inches tall. Mulch regulates moisture, prevents weeds, and keeps soil temperatures stable. In hot regions, straw mulch prevents overheating; in cooler areas, black plastic or fabric mulch retains warmth and speeds growth.
Weed, Pest & Disease Management
Because bush beans mature rapidly, even mild stress can reduce yields. Keep the beds weed-free, especially in the first 4 weeks when roots are shallow. Avoid cultivating too deeply near the stems.
Inspect plants weekly for bean beetles, aphids, and leaf spot. At first signs of damage, use neem oil or insecticidal soap and handpick adults. Encourage beneficial predators like lady beetles and lacewings. Rotate bean crops annually — at least every 3–4 years — to reduce disease buildup in the soil.
For fungal control, ensure air circulation by spacing rows 18–24 inches apart. Remove any yellowing leaves promptly, and water at the base of plants rather than overhead.
Feeding & Midseason Care
After the first flush of blooms, top-dress rows with compost or worm castings. This provides a balanced, slow nutrient release to sustain pod set without excessive leaf growth. Avoid foliar sprays rich in nitrogen; instead, choose potassium- and phosphorus-dominant organic feeds if pods appear sparse.
A compost tea or diluted seaweed extract applied around bloom time boosts resilience and encourages abundant flowering.
Mid- to Late-Season Renewal
Bush beans often produce in waves. After the initial heavy harvest, trim back spent or yellowing foliage slightly and apply a shallow compost top-dress. Water deeply afterward to stimulate new shoots. With this treatment, many varieties yield a secondary flush before frost.
Remove mature pods promptly. Overripe pods on the plant signal completion of the life cycle, causing flowering to slow or cease. By keeping the plants clean and harvested, you extend their vigor and productivity.
General Growing Rhythm
Maintain steady moisture and avoid wide fluctuations.
Keep mulch in place from midseason onward.
Feed lightly but regularly through compost, not fertilizer.
Rotate beans with non-leguminous crops each year.
Remove diseased debris at season’s end to prevent overwintering pathogens.
Additional Tips — Royalty Purple Pod Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)
Harvesting
Pick pods when deep purple, smooth, and 5–6 inches long. Harvest every 2–3 days for best flavor and continued yield.
Flavor & Culinary Notes
Crisp, sweet, and mild. Excellent raw or lightly cooked. Turns bright green when boiled but retains buttery texture.
Handling & Storage
Store pods unwashed in a perforated bag at 38°F for up to 7 days. Blanch 2 minutes before freezing.
Growing & Maintenance
Support: Bush habit.
Soil and feeding: Compost-enriched soil; moderate fertility.
Watering: 1 inch weekly; consistent moisture important.
Inoculation: Bean inoculant recommended.
Succession: Sow every 10–14 days for ongoing harvest.
Seed Saving
Dry pods completely on plant before shelling. Store seed cool, dry, and dark.
Container Tips
Grow 3 per 10-gallon pot. Rotate pot for even light exposure.
Common Pairings in the Garden
Good with carrots, marigolds, and cucumbers. Avoid alliums.
Extended Season Care
Use mulch for soil warmth and moisture retention.
Common Pests & Problems — Purple Queen Bean
Insect Pests
Mexican Bean Beetle:
Adults and yellow, spiny larvae feed on leaf undersides, skeletonizing the foliage. Handpick beetles and egg clusters regularly, apply floating row covers early in the season, and destroy infested debris after harvest to prevent overwintering.
Aphids:
Small, soft-bodied insects that gather on new shoots and leaf undersides, sucking sap and spreading disease. Spray off with water or treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Attract beneficial predators like lady beetles and lacewings.
Seedcorn Maggot:
Larvae damage germinating seeds in cold, wet soils. Avoid planting in freshly manured or compacted beds and wait for warm soil temperatures (above 65°F).
Cutworms:
Feed at night and cut seedlings at soil level. Protect plants with collars and keep the area weed-free.
Spider Mites:
Common in hot, dry weather, they cause stippling and yellowing on leaves. Maintain even moisture and rinse foliage occasionally to reduce infestations.
Fungal and Bacterial Diseases
Anthracnose:
Dark, sunken lesions form on pods and streaks appear on stems. Use certified disease-free seed, rotate crops for 3–4 years, and avoid handling wet plants.
Rust:
Reddish-orange pustules develop on leaf undersides, reducing vigor. Increase spacing for airflow, water at soil level, and remove infected leaves.
Bacterial Blight (Common & Halo):
Angular brown lesions with yellow halos spread in humid conditions. Avoid overhead watering, disinfect tools, and remove diseased plants promptly.
Root Rot (Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, or Pythium):
Causes damping off and stunted plants in soggy soils. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
Bean Mosaic Virus:
Mottled, curled leaves and stunted growth indicate infection. Control aphid vectors and remove affected plants immediately.
Physiological and Environmental Issues
Heat Stress:
High daytime temperatures (above 90°F) cause flower drop and poor pod set. Maintain consistent watering and use mulch to moderate soil temperature.
Cold Soil Germination Failure:
Plant only when soil temperatures exceed 65°F for reliable emergence.
Water Stress:
Inconsistent watering leads to misshapen pods and poor seed fill. Provide steady, deep watering and mulch to conserve soil moisture.
Nutrient Deficiency:
Yellowing foliage may indicate nitrogen deficiency or poor nodulation. Inoculate seeds before planting for better nitrogen fixation.
Integrated Management Tips
Rotate bean crops every 3–4 years to reduce pest and disease buildup.
Water early in the morning at the soil base to prevent leaf wetness.
Mulch to regulate temperature and suppress weeds.
Remove all crop residues promptly after harvest.
Monitor weekly for early signs of beetles, aphids, and blight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Royalty Purple Pod Bean
Q: What makes Royalty Purple Pod beans unique?
A: Royalty Purple Pod beans are famous for their vibrant purple pods that turn green when cooked. They’re valued for their ornamental beauty, tender texture, and ability to germinate in cooler soils better than most bush beans.
Q: Are Royalty Purple Pod beans heirloom or hybrid?
A: They are a heritage open-pollinated variety, introduced in 1957 by the New Hampshire Agricultural Experiment Station and widely adopted for their early, consistent performance.
Q: How long do Royalty Purple Pod beans take to mature?
A: Maturity occurs in 50–55 days from direct sowing, making them an excellent early-season choice.
Q: What is the growth habit of Royalty Purple Pod beans?
A: They are bush-type plants, compact and productive, growing 18–24 inches tall with high yields over a short harvest window.
Q: Why do Royalty Purple Pod beans change color when cooked?
A: Their purple hue comes from anthocyanins—natural pigments that break down under heat, revealing the green chlorophyll beneath.
Q: What do Royalty Purple Pod beans taste like?
A: They have a mild, sweet flavor with a crisp texture, ideal for steaming, stir-frying, or eating fresh from the garden.
Q: Can Royalty Purple Pod beans handle cool weather?
A: Yes. They were bred for improved cold soil germination and can be planted earlier in the season than most green beans.
Q: Are Royalty Purple Pod beans good for freezing or canning?
A: Yes. They maintain excellent texture and flavor after blanching and freezing, though their purple color turns green during cooking.
Q: How should Royalty Purple Pod beans be harvested?
A: Pick pods when they are 5–6 inches long and tender. Regular harvesting keeps plants productive throughout the season.
History & Culture — Royalty Purple Pod Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)
The Royalty Purple Pod Bean is a mid-20th-century American heirloom of Phaseolus vulgaris, introduced in 1957 by the New Hampshire Agricultural Experiment Station. It was developed to offer both striking color and improved cold-soil germination, making it one of the earliest dependable purple-podded bush beans for northern growers.
Its ancestry reaches back to the domesticated beans of Central and South America, where Indigenous farmers first cultivated and diversified Phaseolus vulgaris more than 7,000 years ago. Through centuries of trade and adaptation, these beans spread across the Americas and into Europe, giving rise to countless regional forms—including the vibrant purple-podded types prized for their beauty and vigor.
Royalty Purple Pod’s vivid hue comes from anthocyanins, natural pigments that protect the plant from environmental stress. The pods turn bright green when cooked, a characteristic that made them both ornamental and practical in home gardens. Its success helped establish purple bush beans as a standard category in seed catalogs, valued for their reliability and striking visual appeal.
Saving seeds from Royalty Purple Pod Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris):
1. Selecting Plants for Seed Saving:
Choose healthy plants with vigorous growth and abundant pods.
Avoid plants showing signs of disease or poor growth.
2. Harvesting Seeds:
Timing: Allow the pods to mature and dry on the plant.
Collection: Harvest the dry pods on a dry day.
3. Drying Seeds:
Place the pods in a well-ventilated, dry area. Allow them to dry completely for one to two weeks.
4. Cleaning Seeds:
Separation: Shell the dry pods to release the seeds.
Inspection: Ensure seeds are clean and free from mold or pests.
5. Storing Seeds:
Containers: Store seeds in labeled paper envelopes or airtight containers.
Storage Conditions: Keep in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Viability: Use seeds within two to three years for best results.
6. Testing Seed Viability:
Test by placing seeds on a damp paper towel in a plastic bag in a warm place and check for germination.
Tips for Successful Seed Saving:
Isolation: Maintain distance between different bean varieties.
Pollinators: Encourage pollinators for better seed production.
Record Keeping: Keep detailed records of the process.
Uses and Benefits:
Royalty Purple Pod Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is a bush variety known for its vibrant purple pods that turn green when cooked. It is prized for its tender texture and excellent flavor, making it ideal for fresh eating, canning, and freezing.
Beans provide protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting overall health. Royalty Purple Pod Beans are versatile in culinary applications, perfect for steaming, sautéing, and adding to salads and stir-fries.
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Our seeds are grown and sourced from the US. They're then packed and shipped from Colerain NC.
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We regularly test the quality and germination rate of our seeds. We're so confident that our seeds are backed by a 1 year warranty!
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Alliance Of Native Seedkeepers
Bean Seeds - Bush - Royalty Purple Pod
$200 USD
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
A bold and flavorful heirloom, Royalty Purple Pod stands out for its vibrant violet pods, vigorous growth, and excellent taste. Compact, bushy plants grow 18–24 inches tall and produce abundant clusters of straight, stringless pods about 5–6 inches long.
The pods are tender and crisp, with a sweet, classic bean flavor that holds well after cooking. When exposed to heat, their brilliant purple color transforms into a rich green, signaling perfect doneness. Beyond beauty, Royalty Purple Pod is renowned for its resilience—thriving in cooler soils and resisting common diseases like mosaic virus and root rot.
Developed in the 1930s by the New Hampshire Agricultural Experiment Station, this variety quickly earned its place as one of the most dependable early bush beans. Today, Royalty Purple Pod remains a favorite among gardeners for its combination of striking appearance, adaptability, and top-tier flavor.
