Organic 'Jacob's Cattle' Beans
Organic 'Jacob's Cattle' bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) from the seed company Gaia, a heritage bean with speckled leaves, flavorful and quick-cooking
The 'Jacob's Cattle' bean is a very old heirloom variety, especially prized in the Northeastern United States and the Maritimes for its beautiful and easily recognizable red and white speckled seeds . Known for its exceptionally short cooking time —about half that of regular dried beans—it offers a tender texture and mild flavor, perfect for soups , stews, and traditional baked beans . Productive, hardy, and reliable, it remains a favorite dried bean among gardeners and cooks alike.
Companion plants : Corn, Carrot, Cabbage, Cucumber, Peas, Radish, Potato, Squash, Nasturtium, Rosemary
Nefarious plants : Alliums, Beetroot
Spread/Habit : Dwarf, bushy
Plant height : 45 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Red/white speckled bean, very quick cooking, excellent in soup, old heritage variety
Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Creamy, mild, holds up well when simmered.
Cold tolerance : Not frost tolerant
Farming method
To optimize germination, soak the seeds for a maximum of 8 hours in lukewarm water. Sow directly after the last frost , at a depth of 2.5–5 cm .
Space the plants 7 to 10 cm apart, with 30 cm between rows. Germination occurs in 8 to 10 days at 21 and 31 °C (optimum 26 °C).
Place in full sun (level 3) and water moderately (level 2). To extend production, sow every 3 weeks .
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the pods turn brown and are completely dry . Ensure good air circulation to prevent moisture buildup in the pods intended for drying.
Store only dry grains , in an airtight container, away from light and moisture.
Usage ideas
• In traditional soups , where they cook very quickly
• In baked beans or stews
• In rustic stews, where they retain a pleasant texture
• In colorful bean salads
• In quick purees and spreads
The 'Jacob's Cattle' bean remains a must-have: beautiful, quick to cook, nutritious, and steeped in heritage . A perfect variety for gardeners and cooks looking for a reliable and aromatic dried bean.
