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
Discover the unique charm of Winged Pole Bean Seeds, a captivating addition to your garden with their vigorous climbing habit. These beans can reach impressive heights, making them a stunning vertical feature. Typically maturing in about 75 to 85 days, they offer a rewarding harvest of tender, winged pods that are both visually striking and delicious. The pods transition from a vibrant green to a deeper hue as they mature, providing a captivating visual progression.
The winged pods are not just a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. Known for their crisp texture and subtly sweet flavor, they are a versatile kitchen staple. Perfect for stir-fries, salads, and as a steamed side dish, these beans bring a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance to your meals. Their unique shape and texture make them a favorite among culinary enthusiasts.
In addition to their culinary appeal, Winged Pole Beans are known for their high yield, ensuring a bountiful supply throughout the growing season. These beans thrive in warm climates, appreciating full sun and well-drained soil. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a budding enthusiast, cultivating these beans promises not only a productive harvest but also a visually stunning display.
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How to Grow — Winged Beans (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus)
Winged beans are tropical legumes of extraordinary vigor, grown for edible pods, roots, flowers, and leaves. They thrive in heat, humidity, and fertile soils, producing best where nights stay warm. Their care requires ample sunlight, deep feeding, and patient training through the long summer.
Soil & Fertility Management
Winged beans prosper in rich, loamy, well-drained soil, deeply worked with compost or aged manure. They are heavy feeders compared to other legumes and benefit from periodic organic enrichment through their long season.
At planting, amend with compost and a modest dose of wood ash or bone meal for balanced phosphorus and potassium. Once vines reach 12 inches, side-dress monthly with compost or diluted fish emulsion to sustain fruiting.
Though they fix nitrogen, winged beans require high base fertility for full vigor. Avoid pure sand or compacted clay; their roots prefer a loose, nutrient-rich medium.
Watering & Moisture Balance
Provide 1½ inches of water per week, ensuring deep, uniform soil moisture. Winged beans tolerate brief dryness but lose flowers quickly under drought. Maintain constant hydration during flowering and pod fill, especially in sandy soils.
Mulch heavily with 3–4 inches of straw or compost to reduce evaporation and moderate soil temperature. In extremely hot regions, light afternoon shade can protect vines from stress without reducing yield.
Sunlight & Temperature
This is a true tropical perennial, requiring at least 8 hours of full sun daily and temperatures consistently above 75°F (24°C). Growth slows below 70°F and ceases in cool nights.
In cooler climates, treat as a long-season annual. Use black mulch or raised beds to warm soil and start seedlings indoors for transplant once night temperatures remain above 60°F.
Support & Growth Management
Train vines on strong trellises or arbors 7–10 feet high. The stems are twining and heavy once fruiting begins, requiring sturdy construction. Guide vines upward early, and prune tangled runners to maintain airflow.
Pinch back excessive vegetative growth at midsummer to encourage branching and flowering. If allowed to sprawl unchecked, vines become leafy and slow to set pods.
Feeding & Midseason Renewal
Feed every 3–4 weeks through the growing season with compost tea, diluted fish emulsion, or seaweed extract. Winged beans continue flowering into late autumn in warm climates, responding well to light organic feeding until frost.
For plants grown in containers, leach soil periodically with clear water to prevent salt buildup.
Pollination & Flowering
Winged beans produce blue or lavender blossoms that open late afternoon and close by morning. Pollination is mostly handled by large bees; avoid spraying insecticides at dusk.
In low-pollinator conditions, hand-pollinate by gently transferring pollen between flowers using a small brush. Proper pollination ensures plump, uniform pods.
Pest & Disease Management
Few pests trouble winged beans, though aphids, thrips, and leaf miners may appear in dense growth. Neem oil or insecticidal soap applied at dawn manages outbreaks. Maintain open canopies to deter fungal rot and mildew.
In very humid areas, rust and anthracnose can strike lower leaves. Prune and mulch to prevent soil splash, and rotate crops annually.
Harvest & Late-Season Care
Harvest pods young and tender, 6–9 inches long, every 2–3 days. Mature pods become fibrous and halt new flowering. Frequent picking keeps vines vigorous and productive.
For tuber harvest (in long warm seasons), allow plants to grow to full maturity and die back naturally. Dig carefully to avoid damaging the roots, which are crisp and nutty.
Cease feeding late in the season to allow energy to channel into final pod formation. Mulch heavily and water consistently as temperatures cool to extend yield into early frost.
End-of-Season & Soil Renewal
At season’s end, cut vines at the soil line, leaving nitrogen-rich roots to decompose naturally. Compost healthy residue or chop it in lightly as green manure. Rotate the next crop to heavy feeders like corn or greens to take advantage of the replenished nitrogen.
In tropical climates, prune back and allow roots to regrow for a second season.
General Growing Rhythm
Maintain warm soil, full sun, and steady moisture.
Feed every few weeks with compost or seaweed.
Prune and train vines for airflow and easy harvest.
Pick pods young and often for best flavor.
Leave roots to renew soil fertility after harvest.
Additional Tips — Pole Bean - Winged Bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus)
Harvesting
Harvest pods when 6–9 inches long, still tender and glossy. Pick every 2–3 days to keep vines productive.
Flavor & Culinary Notes
Nutty, similar to snow peas with a hint of asparagus. Young pods eaten fresh; mature seeds and tubers are edible when cooked.
Handling & Storage
Store fresh pods unwashed at 38°F for 5–6 days. Blanch and freeze for long storage.
Growing & Maintenance
Support: Requires trellis or poles 6–8 ft tall.
Soil and feeding: Warm, fertile, well-drained soil.
Watering: 1 inch weekly; tolerates heat well.
Inoculation: Cowpea-type inoculant recommended.
Succession: Sow after soil warms to 70°F; one planting sufficient.
Seed Saving
Allow pods to dry brown before shelling. Store seed cool, dark, and dry.
Container Tips
Grow 2 vines per 15-gallon pot with tall trellis.
Common Pairings in the Garden
Pairs with corn, okra, and cucumbers. Avoid onions.
Extended Season Care
Warmth-loving tropical legume; use black mulch and full sun exposure for best yield.
Common Pests & Problems — Pole Bean – Winged Bean
Insect Pests
Aphids:
Soft-bodied insects that suck sap from young shoots and undersides of leaves, causing leaf curl, yellowing, and honeydew buildup. Wash off with water, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap, and encourage natural predators such as lady beetles and lacewings.
Bean Leaf Beetles:
Chew small, round holes in leaves and may damage pods. Rotate crops annually, use row covers early in the season, and remove plant debris after harvest to disrupt their life cycle.
Cutworms:
Feed at the base of seedlings, cutting stems at soil level. Protect plants with collars and keep soil clear of weeds.
Thrips:
Feed on flowers and young pods, leaving silvery streaks and reducing seed set. Keep plants evenly watered and attract beneficial insects to control populations.
Spider Mites:
Proliferate in hot, dry conditions, causing stippling, bronzing, and webbing on leaves. Maintain consistent soil moisture, rinse foliage occasionally, and increase humidity around plants.
Fungal and Bacterial Diseases
Anthracnose:
Dark, sunken lesions form on pods and stems, often spreading in wet weather. Use clean, certified seed, rotate crops for at least three years, and avoid handling plants when wet.
Rust:
Reddish-orange pustules form on the undersides of leaves, leading to early leaf loss. Remove infected leaves, water early in the day at soil level, and increase spacing for airflow.
Powdery Mildew:
White, powdery growth appears on upper leaf surfaces during humid or crowded conditions. Improve ventilation, water early in the day, and apply neem oil if necessary.
Bacterial Blight:
Angular brown spots with yellow halos appear on leaves and pods. Avoid overhead watering and remove infected plants promptly to prevent spread.
Root Rot (Rhizoctonia or Fusarium):
Causes damping off, stunted growth, and yellowing in poorly drained soils. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Physiological and Environmental Issues
Heat Stress:
While winged beans tolerate warmth, excessive heat over 95°F can cause flower drop. Maintain steady watering and mulch to moderate soil temperature.
Pollination Problems:
In humid or overly shaded environments, flowers may not set pods. Encourage pollinators by planting nearby nectar sources.
Water Stress:
Inconsistent watering leads to poor pod formation and incomplete seed fill. Water deeply and regularly during flowering and pod development.
Nutrient Deficiency:
Pale leaves or poor growth indicate nitrogen deficiency or weak Rhizobium nodulation. Inoculate seeds before planting for optimal nitrogen fixation.
Integrated Management Tips
Rotate winged beans every 3–4 years with non-legume crops.
Train vines on sturdy supports for airflow and sunlight penetration.
Water early in the morning at soil level to avoid wet foliage.
Mulch to retain moisture and reduce weed competition.
Remove plant debris after harvest to prevent overwintering pests and pathogens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Pole – Winged Bean
Q: What makes Winged beans unique?
A: Winged beans are remarkable tropical legumes that produce edible pods, leaves, flowers, and even roots. Their four-winged pods are tender and crisp when young, while the mature seeds are high in protein and similar in nutrition to soybeans.
Q: Are Winged beans heirloom or hybrid?
A: They are an ancient tropical heirloom species (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus), traditionally cultivated in Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and the Pacific Islands for centuries.
Q: How long do Winged beans take to mature?
A: They mature in about 90–120 days, depending on heat and day length.
Q: What is the growth habit of Winged beans?
A: They are vigorous pole-type climbers, often reaching 10–12 feet tall, requiring strong trellises or poles for support.
Q: What parts of the Winged bean are edible?
A: Nearly the entire plant—pods, seeds, leaves, flowers, and tuberous roots—can be eaten. Young pods are the most popular part, used like snap beans or stir-fried vegetables.
Q: What do Winged beans taste like?
A: The young pods have a mild, slightly nutty flavor similar to asparagus or green beans. The roasted seeds taste like peanuts, and the tubers are sweet and crisp.
Q: What climate is best for Winged beans?
A: They thrive in hot, humid, tropical climates with long day lengths. In cooler or temperate zones, they may need to be started indoors and grown during the warmest months.
Q: Are Winged beans nutritious?
A: Extremely. They are rich in protein, iron, calcium, and vitamins, making them one of the most nutrient-dense legumes grown globally.
Q: How should Winged beans be harvested?
A: Harvest pods when 4–6 inches long and tender. For dry seeds, allow pods to mature and dry fully on the vine before shelling.
History & Culture — Pole – Winged Bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus)
The Winged Bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) is a tropical legume native to Papua New Guinea and Southeast Asia, celebrated for its remarkable versatility—nearly every part of the plant is edible. Archaeobotanical and linguistic evidence suggest its cultivation extends back several thousand years across Melanesia and Island Southeast Asia, where it was grown as both a food and soil-enriching crop.
The plant’s name comes from the distinctive “wings” that line its pods, a feature that sets it apart from other legumes. Traditional farmers in regions such as Indonesia, the Philippines, and Myanmar developed diverse local strains adapted to humid, equatorial climates. Winged beans became a vital source of protein in areas where other beans struggled, thriving in poor soils due to their strong nitrogen-fixing ability.
Interest in the crop expanded globally during the 1970s, when agricultural researchers promoted it as a “super legume” for tropical development due to its high nutritional content and adaptability. While still underutilized outside its native range, the Winged Bean continues to hold cultural and agricultural importance across Southeast Asia and Oceania as a traditional, resilient food plant.
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Alliance of Native Seedkeepers
Bean Seeds - Pole - Winged
$200 USD
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
Discover the unique charm of Winged Pole Bean Seeds, a captivating addition to your garden with their vigorous climbing habit. These beans can reach impressive heights, making them a stunning vertical feature. Typically maturing in about 75 to 85 days, they offer a rewarding harvest of tender, winged pods that are both visually striking and delicious. The pods transition from a vibrant green to a deeper hue as they mature, providing a captivating visual progression.
The winged pods are not just a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. Known for their crisp texture and subtly sweet flavor, they are a versatile kitchen staple. Perfect for stir-fries, salads, and as a steamed side dish, these beans bring a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance to your meals. Their unique shape and texture make them a favorite among culinary enthusiasts.
In addition to their culinary appeal, Winged Pole Beans are known for their high yield, ensuring a bountiful supply throughout the growing season. These beans thrive in warm climates, appreciating full sun and well-drained soil. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a budding enthusiast, cultivating these beans promises not only a productive harvest but also a visually stunning display.
