Organic 'Henderson Bush' Lima Bean
identification
description
'Henderson Bush' Lima Bean (Phaseolus lunatus), offered by Ferme Tourne-Sol
The 'Henderson Bush' lima bean is a heritage variety from Virginia , prized for its creamy white beans and bushy growth habit, well-suited to Canada's short summers . Originally discovered in a ditch , this hardy lima bean is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of heirloom seeds. It produces reliably even in moderate heat.
The compact plants require no staking and offer a regular harvest of pods containing flavorful beans, highly prized both dried and freshly shelled. This is an excellent entry point for growing lima beans in northern climates , without the complexity of late-maturing varieties.
Type: Annual legume (lima bean)
Plant habit: Bushy
Plant height: Approximately 45 to 60 cm
Grain color: White
Quantity per packet: 25 seeds
Maturity: Approximately 65 days
Family: Fabaceae
Origin: Virginia Heritage
Uses: Fresh or dried broad beans, stews
Companion plants: Corn, carrot, lettuce, squash
Enemy plants: Garlic, onion
Farming method
The 'Henderson Bush' lima bean is sown directly outdoors after the last frost , once the soil has warmed up. It is sensitive to frost and should only be grown once per season . Plant in full sun , in well-drained, moderately fertile soil .
Sow at a depth of approximately 3 to 5 cm , spacing the plants 15 to 20 cm apart in rows 45 to 60 cm apart. Regular watering at the beginning of growth promotes good establishment; afterwards, the plants are relatively tolerant of drier periods.
Harvesting and use
Broad beans can be harvested fresh , when the pods are fully swollen, or dried , once the pods are completely ripe on the plant. Dried beans keep very well and develop a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture when cooked.
A Lima for northern climates
Growing the 'Henderson Bush' Lima bean means keeping alive a humble and robust heritage variety , capable of thriving where others fail. Nourishing, reliable, and steeped in history, it naturally finds its place in a vegetable garden that values diversity, resilience, and the passing down of knowledge.
