Autumn Zebra beans on a white background.
An overhead view of an arrangement of pods dried Autumn Zebra Beans.
A close-up of Autumn Zebra Beans in colorful pods.
Close-up of Autumn Zebra Beans in dried pods.
A close-up view of Autumn Zebra Beans on a weathered wooden background.
Autumn Zebra beans on a white background.
An overhead view of an arrangement of pods dried Autumn Zebra Beans.
A close-up of Autumn Zebra Beans in colorful pods.
Close-up of Autumn Zebra Beans in dried pods.
A close-up view of Autumn Zebra Beans on a weathered wooden background.

Bean Seeds,
Autumn Zebra

51 Review#BN205 · 40 seeds
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Description

(Phaseolus vulgaris) Pole bean. Known as the “seaweed bean,” Autumn Zebra earns its name from a rich, umami-packed flavor that echoes the taste of kombu, the sea vegetable long treasured in Japanese cooking. Climbing vines produce colorful pods that can be picked young for tender green beans or left to mature into thin-skinned, silky dry beans that cook down smooth and full-bodied, imparting deep and complex flavor into soups, broths, and slow-simmered dishes.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Phaseolus vulgaris
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Pole
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–8
Days to Maturity
70–90
Planting Depth
½–1 in.
Plant Spacing
6–10 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–80°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Autumn Zebra beans after the last frost when the soil temperature consistently stays above 60 F. This typically falls in late spring to early summer, depending on your USDA hardiness zone. It isn’t frost-hardy and prefers 70-80 F. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Preparation: Optionally, soak seeds overnight before planting to enhance germination.

Planting: Sow seeds about 1/2 to 1 inch deep in the soil. Space the plants 6 to 10 inches apart, and use a trellis or pole for support.

How to Grow

Support: Ensure a sturdy trellis or support system is in place for the climbing vines.

Watering: Maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil, especially during the flowering stage.

Harvesting: For fresh beans, pick when pods are young and tender. For dry beans, allow the pods to mature and dry on the vine before harvesting. Harvest frequently to keep plants productive.

How to Save Seeds

  • Common beans do not easily cross pollinate and can be grown close to one another, making them the ideal seed-saving project for beginners.
  • Save seeds from the best-looking, best-tasting, and most vigorous beans.
  • Leave pods on the plant to dry. Pull the plants and shake them vigorously into a bag to release the beans from the pods (same as you would for using them as dried beans).
  • Store in a cool, dry place for the winter (a glass jar in the refrigerator works well!).

FAQ

Can Autumn Zebra beans be grown in containers?

Yes, provided you use a large container with adequate support like a trellis or poles. Ensure the soil is well-drained and keep it consistently moist.

How long does it take for Autumn Zebra beans to mature?

Autumn Zebra Beans typically mature in about 70 to 80 days for fresh beans and up to 90 days for dry beans.

What should I do if Autumn Zebra beans don't germinate?

Ensure soil temperatures are above 60 F at planting, as cooler soil both slows germination and rots the seed. Do not pre-soak bean seed; it takes up water fast enough that soaking splits the cotyledons. Sow 1/2 to 1 inch deep into warm, moist soil and keep it evenly damp.

Are these beans suitable for all climates?

They grow best in warm climates with plenty of sunshine. In cooler climates, starting seeds indoors before transplanting outdoors can improve success rates.

Browse our full range of bean seeds.

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