Organic 'Yellow Kidney' Beans
Organic 'Yellow Kidney' kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) from the seed company Gaia, a robust, flavorful African yellow bean ideal for long cooking
The 'Yellow Kidney' bean, also known as the African yellow bean , is a heritage variety prized for its golden-yellow seeds and hard shell , which helps it retain its shape during cooking . This makes it a perfect dried bean for stews, soups, and casseroles. Very popular in many African culinary traditions, it thrives in warm weather , dislikes cold, and prefers well-drained but regularly watered soil. A productive and reliable variety, it is valued for its exceptional texture, even when cooked for extended periods.
Companion plants : Corn, Carrot, Cabbage, Cucumber, Peas, Radish, Potato, Squash, Nasturtium, Rosemary
Nefarious plants : Alliums, Beetroot
Spread/Habit : Bushy, upright pods
Plant height : 45 to 60 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Characteristics : Yellow grains, retains its shape when cooked, African origin, productive, loves heat
Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Firm-fleshed dried bean with a mild and stable flavor when cooked.
Cold tolerance : Not frost tolerant
Farming method
To encourage germination, soak the seeds for a maximum of 8 hours in lukewarm water (longer soaking may kill the seeds). Sow directly after the last frost , at a depth of 2.5–5 cm . Space plants 7–10 cm apart and rows 30 cm apart. Germination takes 8–10 days at temperatures between 21 and 31°C (optimum 26°C). Provide full sun (level 3) and moderate watering (level 2).
For a continuous harvest , sow every 3 weeks .
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the pods and seeds are fully ripe and dry . Ensure excellent air circulation to allow the beans to dry at the end of the season.
Store only dry beans , in airtight containers, away from moisture.
Usage ideas
• In traditional African stews
• In stews where they retain their shape
• In baked beans or revisited cassoulets
• In hearty soups
• In firm and nutritious bean salads
The 'Yellow Kidney' bean offers exceptional hardiness, flavor, and texture. A warm and productive heirloom variety, perfect for lovers of dried beans that hold their shape perfectly during cooking.
