Dalmatian Bush Bean

Dalmatian Bush Bean – Pretty, Practical, and Packed with Flavour

This little bean’s been around for a long time. It’s an heirloom from Central America and goes by a few different names– Calypso, Orca, or even Yin Yang – but whatever you call it, the beans are unmistakable: plump, glossy black and white, and absolutely beautiful. They look like little works of art, and their flavour doesn’t disappoint either!

You can enjoy them as green beans when picked young, or let the pods swell a bit and shell them fresh. But our favourite? Drying them! Once you see those striking beans, you'll understand why we always set some aside for hearty winter soups, stews, and casseroles.

Growing Tips:
These are compact little plants, only getting to about 45cm tall, so they’re perfect for small gardens or even containers. Treat them just like you would a dwarf French bean – give them sunshine, keep them well watered, and they’ll reward you handsomely.

SOW & GROW: best started in pots or modules during April or May. Wait until mid-May or early June to sow in situ.  Grow them as you would a dwarf French bean, they only reach 45cm tall, keep them well watered.  As they are so short you can grow these in containers.  They will keep flowering and ‘beaning’ until the autumn.

EAT & ENJOY

Green beans: Pick the pods before the beans swell inside – tender and tasty!

Fresh shelling beans: Wait for the pods to puff up, then pick and shell them while the pods are still green.

Dried beans: Let the pods dry fully on the plant – you’ll know they’re ready when you can’t dent the beans with a fingernail. But if rain threatens to ruin the show, don’t worry – harvest them and dry them indoors in a cool, airy spot.

A truly special bean that’s as beautiful as it is useful. If you’ve never grown beans before, this one might just convert you. Happy sowing!