Rattlesnake Pole Beans

Phaseolus vulgaris ‘Rattlesnake’

Characteristics

Culture

Rattlesnake Pole Beans produce bright green pods with purple striations, resembling the pattern of a rattlesnake. This heirloom, open-pollinated variety is very prolific and can be harvested multiple times a week. Trellised vines grow to 10′ tall with bean production from top to bottom. Pods are 6-7″ long with exceptional flavor and texture for fresh eating. This variety does well for canning and freezing. Seeds are tan with dark stripes. If allowed to mature, dried beans are a great, hearty addition to soups. Rattlesnake Pole Beans perform well in hot, humid areas that may experience prolonged dry periods. Not suggested for northernmost areas. A strong, sturdy trellis such as a fence panel to support the plant foliage is recommended. Unlike bush beans which will stop producing after several harvests, pole beans will grow from spring until the first frost in fall or winter. During the heat of summer, beans may stop production and drop blooms. But production will resume once temperatures begin to cool in early fall. Beans should be planted in spring after the last frost has occurred. Beans will germinate best once soil temps have reached 65 F or higher. Seeds can require 8 to 16 days to germinate, depending on the soil temperature. Direct seeding is recommended.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Produces an abundance of green pods with purple streaks. The buff-colored speckled brown seeds are popular in soups. Can handle drought, heat, and humid and weather conditions.

Problems

The roots of green beans grow near the soil surface. When hoeing and pulling weeds, do not dig too deep, or the plant’s roots will be damaged. Click here for more information about disease issues and pests.

Uses

Good for eating fresh and canning and freezes without becoming “rubbery” like most bean varieties.