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

Yardlong beans (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis), also known as asparagus beans or long beans, are a unique variety of legume known for their impressive length, often reaching up to 36 inches. Popular in Asian cuisine, they have a slightly sweet flavor and are commonly used in stir-fries, salads, and soups. Yardlong beans are easy to grow and thrive in warm climates, making them a favorite among home gardeners. Here’s a look at the best 20 varieties of yardlong beans to grow, along with helpful tips and interesting facts about each.

1. Chinese Yardlong Bean

Facts: The most common variety, known for its long, slender pods and tender texture.
Tips: Harvest when pods are about 12-18 inches long for optimal flavor; prefers full sun.

2. Thai Yardlong Bean

Facts: A popular variety in Thai cuisine, known for its robust flavor and crunch.
Tips: Best used in stir-fries and salads; grows well in warm, well-drained soil.

3. Purple Yardlong Bean

Facts: This visually striking variety features purple pods and a sweet flavor.
Tips: Great for adding color to dishes; harvest when pods are young.

4. Green Yardlong Bean

Facts: A standard green variety known for its high yield and versatility in cooking.
Tips: Regular harvesting encourages continuous production; ideal for various recipes.

5. Red Yardlong Bean

Facts: A unique variety with red-tinted pods; known for its rich flavor.
Tips: Excellent for salads and stir-fries; requires consistent moisture.

6. Kampuchea Bean

Facts: A Cambodian variety that produces exceptionally long pods with a mild flavor.
Tips: Grows well in tropical climates; best harvested when tender.

7. Filipino Long Bean

Facts: Commonly used in Filipino cuisine, this variety is known for its sweet and crunchy texture.
Tips: Ideal for traditional dishes; requires full sun and warm temperatures.

8. Bitter Yardlong Bean

Facts: This variety has a stronger flavor profile, often used in traditional remedies.
Tips: Best cooked thoroughly to mellow the taste; grows well in rich soil.

9. Indian Yardlong Bean

Facts: Known for its high yield and robust flavor, this variety is popular in Indian cooking.
Tips: Excellent for curries and stir-fries; prefers well-drained soil.

10. Crispy Yardlong Bean

Facts: A crunchy variety that is great for fresh eating and salads.
Tips: Best harvested young for maximum crispness; thrives in sunny spots.

11. Dwarf Yardlong Bean

Facts: A compact variety that is perfect for container gardening and small spaces.
Tips: Requires regular watering; great for urban gardening.

12. Giant Yardlong Bean

Facts: This variety can produce exceptionally long pods, sometimes exceeding 36 inches.
Tips: Requires ample support for climbing; best harvested when tender.

13. Bamboo Yardlong Bean

Facts: Known for its tall growth habit, resembling bamboo; has a sweet flavor.
Tips: Requires a trellis for support; ideal for warm climates.

14. Korean Yardlong Bean

Facts: A variety popular in Korean cuisine, known for its tender texture and sweet flavor.
Tips: Great for stir-fries and soups; grows well in sunny locations.

15. Maharashtra Yardlong Bean

Facts: This Indian variety is known for its long pods and rich flavor.
Tips: Best harvested young for optimal taste; thrives in warm, moist conditions.

16. Green Asparagus Bean

Facts: This variety is known for its resemblance to asparagus and sweet flavor.
Tips: Ideal for grilling and steaming; prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

17. Pakistani Yardlong Bean

Facts: A robust variety that is popular in Pakistani cuisine for its crunchy texture.
Tips: Requires regular watering; great for traditional dishes.

18. Long Bean (Indonesian)

Facts: This Indonesian variety is known for its slender pods and is commonly used in local dishes.
Tips: Thrives in warm climates; best harvested when young.

19. Vietnamese Yardlong Bean

Facts: A favorite in Vietnamese cooking, this variety has a sweet flavor and tender pods.
Tips: Ideal for soups and stir-fries; grows well in sunny spots.

20. Stir-Fry Long Bean

Facts: Bred specifically for stir-frying, this variety has a sweet flavor and excellent crunch.
Tips: Regular harvesting promotes continuous growth; requires full sun.

Common Questions About Growing Yardlong Beans

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

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

Q: How do I care for yardlong bean plants?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained. Regularly check for pests and diseases.

Q: Can I grow yardlong beans in containers?
A: Yes, yardlong beans can be successfully grown in large containers (at least 5 gallons) with good drainage.

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