The Best 20 Varieties of Wax Beans to Grow: Tips, Facts, and Information

Wax beans, also known as yellow beans, are a popular variety of green beans characterized by their vibrant yellow color and tender texture. They have a slightly sweeter flavor compared to green beans, making them a delightful addition to salads, stir-fries, and side dishes. Wax beans are easy to grow and can be harvested throughout the summer, making them a favorite among home gardeners. Here’s a look at the best 20 varieties of wax beans to grow, along with helpful tips and interesting facts about each.

1. Golden Wax Bean (Bush)

Facts: This classic variety produces vibrant yellow pods and is known for its crisp texture.
Tips: Harvest when pods are about 5-6 inches long for the best flavor; grows well in well-drained soil.

2. Yellow Wax Bean (Pole)

Facts: A climbing variety that produces long, tender pods with a sweet flavor.
Tips: Requires trellising for support; ideal for vertical gardening.

3. Bush Golden Gopher Bean

Facts: A compact variety that yields a good harvest of yellow beans; great for small gardens.
Tips: Best harvested when pods are young and tender.

4. Cream of the Crop

Facts: Known for its creamy flavor and straight, yellow pods; excellent for fresh eating.
Tips: Thrives in sunny locations; regular watering promotes healthy growth.

5. Tendergold

Facts: A hybrid variety that is both early-maturing and disease-resistant.
Tips: Ideal for quick harvests; best when harvested young.

6. Sunshine Wax Bean

Facts: This variety features bright yellow pods and a sweet flavor, making it perfect for fresh dishes.
Tips: Grows well in warm climates; regular harvesting encourages more production.

7. Butterbean (Yellow Indian)

Facts: A traditional variety with flat, wide pods that have a buttery taste.
Tips: Excellent for baking and roasting; requires full sun.

8. Seychelles

Facts: Known for its resistance to rust and other diseases, producing long, smooth pods.
Tips: Best grown in well-drained soil; ideal for stir-fries.

9. Gold Rush

Facts: A productive variety that produces slender, straight pods; great for canning and freezing.
Tips: Harvest regularly to prolong the growing season.

10. Royal Gold

Facts: This variety features a sweet flavor and crisp texture, perfect for salads and fresh eating.
Tips: Thrives in full sun; best harvested young.

11. Giant Yellow Wax Bean

Facts: Produces large, thick pods that are tender and flavorful; great for grilling.
Tips: Requires support if grown as a pole variety; ideal for warm climates.

12. Climbing Yellow Wax Bean

Facts: A climbing variety known for its high yield and sweet flavor.
Tips: Requires trellising for support; great for vertical gardens.

13. Early Prolific Yellow Wax Bean

Facts: An early-maturing variety that produces tender pods; perfect for quick harvests.
Tips: Best grown in well-drained soil; ideal for cool-season planting.

14. Lemon Bean

Facts: A unique variety with a light yellow color and a sweet flavor; great for salads.
Tips: Harvest when pods are tender; requires consistent watering.

15. Table Green

Facts: Known for its delicious flavor and good yield; ideal for fresh eating and freezing.
Tips: Thrives in sunny spots; regular harvesting promotes more growth.

16. Jade Wax Bean

Facts: A versatile variety that produces round, straight pods with a tender texture.
Tips: Best harvested young; great for stir-fries and fresh dishes.

17. Golden Cherokees

Facts: A native variety with a rich history; known for its sweet flavor and beautiful color.
Tips: Thrives in warm, sunny locations; ideal for traditional recipes.

18. Calima

Facts: This hybrid variety is known for its resistance to disease and good yield.
Tips: Best harvested when young for optimal taste; prefers consistent moisture.

19. Yellow Podded Bean

Facts: A traditional variety with long, flat pods; great for canning and freezing.
Tips: Requires full sun; best when harvested regularly.

20. Green and Gold Wax Bean

Facts: A mixed variety producing both green and yellow pods; offers unique flavors.
Tips: Harvest both colors for a colorful dish; thrives in well-drained soil.

Common Questions About Growing Wax Beans

Q: When is the best time to plant wax beans?
A: Wax beans should be planted in late spring after the last frost, as they thrive in warm soil.

Q: How much sunlight do wax beans need?
A: Wax beans prefer full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Q: How do I care for wax bean plants?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regularly check for pests and diseases.

Q: Can I grow wax beans in containers?
A: Yes, wax beans can be successfully grown in containers. Use a pot that is at least 5 gallons deep for adequate root space.

Q: What pests should I watch for when growing wax beans?
A: Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and bean beetles. Regular monitoring and using organic pest control methods can help manage these issues.