The Best 20 Varieties of Yardlong Beans to Grow: Tips, Facts, and Information
Yardlong beans—also known as asparagus beans or snake beans—are vigorous, warm-season climbers prized for their impressively long pods and tender, sweet flavour. Originating from Asia, these beans thrive in summer heat, crop heavily over a long period, and are ideal for vertical growing on canes, trellises, or arches.
With the right variety choice, yardlong beans can be highly productive in UK gardens during warm summers or under protection in greenhouses and polytunnels. They’re fast-growing, visually striking, and excellent for stir-fries, steaming, and light cooking.
This guide explores the best 20 varieties of yardlong beans to grow, along with practical tips, key facts, and growing information to help you choose varieties that suit your space and climate.
⭐ Recommended Products for Growing Yardlong Beans Successfully
Yardlong beans are tall, vigorous climbers that need warmth, support, and consistent moisture. The following products help maximise growth, pod length, and yields.
• Bean Canes, Trellis Panels, or Garden Arches
Strong vertical support is essential. Yardlong beans can grow 2–3 metres tall, and sturdy frames prevent wind damage while keeping pods straight and clean.
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• Greenhouse or Polytunnel (or Cloche Protection)
Extra warmth significantly improves flowering and pod set in cooler summers. Protected growing often results in longer pods and heavier crops.
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• High-Potash Vegetable Feed
Regular feeding once flowering begins encourages continuous pod production and improves flavour.
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What Are Yardlong Beans?
Yardlong beans (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis) are closely related to cowpeas rather than traditional French or runner beans. They produce long, slender pods that can reach 30–90cm depending on variety and growing conditions.
- Flavour: Mild, sweet, slightly nutty
- Texture: Tender when young
- Pod length: 30–90cm
- Uses: Stir-fries, steaming, curries, light boiling
Pods are best harvested young and frequently to keep plants productive.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Yardlong Beans
- Soil: Fertile, free-draining, moisture-retentive
- Position: Full sun, sheltered
- Sowing time: April to May (under cover), May to June outdoors
- Spacing: 20–30cm between plants
- Support: Essential from early growth
Yardlong beans prefer warm nights and will slow down in cool weather.
The Best 20 Varieties of Yardlong Beans to Grow
1. Red Noodle
One of the most popular varieties.
- Deep red pods
- Excellent flavour
- High yields
Striking and productive.
2. Green Noodle
Classic green yardlong bean.
- Long, slender pods
- Reliable growth
- Mild flavour
Ideal for beginners.
3. Chinese Red
Traditional Asian variety.
- Burgundy-red pods
- Very long growth
- Heat tolerant
Excellent in warm summers.
4. Chinese Green
Standard market variety.
- Straight green pods
- Consistent cropping
- Vigorous vines
Very dependable.
5. Purple Podded Yardlong
Decorative and productive.
- Deep purple pods
- Turns green when cooked
- Good flavour
Adds colour to the garden.
6. Black Seeded Yardlong
Strong, reliable variety.
- Long pods
- Good disease resistance
- Vigorous growth
Performs well under cover.
7. White Seeded Yardlong
A classic selection.
- Smooth green pods
- Tender texture
- Good yields
Popular for cooking.
8. Thai Soldier
Heavy-yielding variety.
- Thick pods
- Strong growth
- Excellent heat tolerance
Great for polytunnels.
9. Canton Long
Traditional Chinese variety.
- Very long pods
- Fast growth
- Excellent flavour
Best in warm conditions.
10. Snake Bean
Common alternative name variety.
- Flexible, long pods
- Reliable cropping
- Mild taste
Excellent stir-fry bean.
11. Asparagus Bean Green
Tender pod variety.
⭐ Recommended Products — Garden & Allotment Essentials for March
March is when the growing season truly begins. Seeds are being sown daily, beds are prepared and late frosts are still possible — these essentials help produce strong plants and a successful start.
Seed Trays, Modules & Propagation Kits — perfect for tomatoes, brassicas, lettuce, onions and flowers. 👉
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Heated Propagators, Heat Mats & Grow Lights — improves germination and prevents leggy seedlings during cold nights. 👉
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Seed & Cutting Compost — essential for healthy seedlings and strong root growth. 👉
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Garden Fleece & Plant Protection Covers — protects seedlings, potatoes and early plantings from late frost. 👉
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Spring Vegetable Seeds — carrots, beetroot, peas, spinach and salads can all be started now. 👉
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Garden Kneeler & Seat — makes long sowing and planting sessions far more comfortable. 👉
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Pressure Washer (Greenhouse & Patio Cleaning) — clean patios, paths and greenhouses before planting. 👉
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Solar Garden Lights — perfect for enjoying the garden during brighter spring evenings. 👉
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- Sweet flavour
- Slender pods
- Early cropping
Good for frequent harvesting.
12. Asparagus Bean Red
Colourful and productive.
- Dark red pods
- Decorative vines
- Strong yields
Ideal for ornamental veg gardens.
13. Malaysian Long
Heat-loving variety.
- Thick pods
- Strong vines
- Late-season cropping
Best under protection.
14. Oriental Long Green
Modern improved type.
- Uniform pod length
- Reliable harvests
- Vigorous growth
Excellent for UK growers.
15. Long White
Pale pod variety.
- Smooth texture
- Mild flavour
- Consistent growth
Good for fresh cooking.
16. Extreme Long
Selected for pod length.
- Very long pods
- Requires strong support
- Heavy feeder
Impressive but demanding.
17. Yardlong Bean Metro
Compact vine type.
- Slightly shorter vines
- Easier to manage
- Good yields
Ideal for smaller spaces.
18. Vigna Classic
Traditional open-pollinated type.
- Strong resilience
- Consistent crops
- Good flavour
Reliable garden variety.
19. Asian Delight
Improved flavour selection.
- Tender pods
- Fast regrowth
- Long harvest period
Great for home kitchens.
20. Heritage Yardlong
Traditional landrace variety.
- Variable pod length
- Strong flavour
- Robust growth
Excellent for seed savers.
Common Problems When Growing Yardlong Beans
- Poor flowering: Insufficient heat
- Short pods: Inconsistent watering
- Slow growth: Cold nights
- Yellowing leaves: Low nutrients
Warmth and regular feeding solve most issues.
Harvesting and Storage Tips
- Harvest pods young and often
- Pick every 2–3 days in peak season
- Use fresh for best texture
- Can be blanched and frozen
Frequent harvesting increases total yield.
Nutritional Benefits of Yardlong Beans
- High in protein
- Rich in fibre
- Contains vitamins A and C
- Low in fat
A nutritious and filling vegetable.
Final Thoughts
Yardlong beans are a standout summer crop, combining productivity, visual appeal, and excellent flavour. With the right support and warmth, they reward gardeners with long harvests and impressive pods that elevate both the garden and the kitchen.
Whether you choose classic green varieties, striking red or purple pods, or heat-loving Asian types, yardlong beans are a worthwhile addition for any gardener looking to grow something a little different.