Cranberry Bean

Phaseolus vulgaris 'Cranberry'

vegetable

A beautiful speckled shell bean with creamy white pods splashed with vivid red-pink markings that fade to tan when dried. The fresh-shelled beans are nutty and creamy. A staple of Italian, Portuguese, and South American cooking. Can be eaten fresh-shelled (like lima beans) or as a dried bean. One of the most ornamental beans for the vegetable garden.

✅ Plant alongside

Good neighbors that attract beneficial insects or deter pests

• Corn: Classic three sisters partner providing support for pole types
• Squash: Ground cover combination; three sisters
• Summer Savory: Traditional bean companion; deters bean beetles
• Cucumber: Compatible warm-season companion with different pest profiles

❌ Keep away from

🛡️ Pest & disease prevention

Proactive ways to stop trouble before it starts. Tap a name with an arrow for its full guide

• Mexican bean beetle →

  Row cover early; handpick adults and orange larvae; neem oil spray

• Aphids →

  Water blast; insecticidal soap; beneficial insect habitat nearby

• Bean leaf roller →

  Bt spray when larvae are small; remove rolled leaf shelters

• White mold →

  Ensure spacing and airflow; avoid overhead watering

🌾 Harvest & storage

For fresh shell beans: harvest when pods are fully plump and the red markings are vivid. Pods will feel rounded when you run your hand along them. Cook like fresh limas. Simmer 20 to 30 minutes. For dry beans: allow pods to brown and rattle on the plant. Store dry beans up to 3 years in airtight containers.

🥗 Nutrition & benefits

Excellent source of plant protein, fiber, folate, iron, and potassium. Contains anthocyanins in the red-splashed pods. One of the most nutrient-dense beans available. Used in traditional South American and Mediterranean cuisines as a staple protein source.