A trio of Black Turtle Beans on a white background.
Black Turtle Beans with a ceramic turtle on a stone background.
Loose and in pods Black Turtle Beans arranged on a light grey background.
Black Turtle Beans with light pink pods arranged on a stone background.
Black Turtle Beans arranged with pods on a light background.
A trio of Black Turtle Beans on a white background.
Black Turtle Beans with a ceramic turtle on a stone background.
Loose and in pods Black Turtle Beans arranged on a light grey background.
Black Turtle Beans with light pink pods arranged on a stone background.
Black Turtle Beans arranged with pods on a light background.

Bean Seeds,
Black Turtle

4.416 Reviews#BN169 · 40 seeds
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Description

(Phaseolus vulgaris) Bush bean. Deep, glossy black beans bring rich, hearty flavor and a satisfying, meaty texture to the table, making them a staple in Latin American kitchens. Compact bush plants produce reliably, even in cooler northern climates, delivering consistent harvests of anthocyanin-rich beans perfect for chili, refried beans, and slow-simmered dishes. This carefully maintained strain traces back to seed collected in Mexico and preserved for years by the Doug Baty family of Montana.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Phaseolus vulgaris
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Bush
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
95
Planting Depth
½–1 in.
Plant Spacing
4 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–80°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Black Turtle beans in spring after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60°F. These beans are sensitive to cold and do not transplant well, so direct sowing is recommended. For optimal growth, ensure they receive full sun every day​. 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

Soak the beans in water overnight before planting to improve germination. Sow seeds about 1/2 to 1 inch deep in the soil. Space the plants 4 inches apart. Black beans do not require heavy fertilization as they fix nitrogen themselves, but ensure the soil is rich in organic matter​.

How to Grow

Water the plants moderately, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. These are bush beans, therefore staking isn’t required. Regularly check for pests like aphids and bean beetles, and use appropriate methods to manage them, such as insecticidal soap or companion planting with flowers like marigolds​. Pick frequently to keep plants productive. Succession plant for prolonged harvest.

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

How long do Black Turtle beans take to mature?

They typically take about 95 days to reach maturity.

Can Black Turtle beans be grown in containers?

Yes, the compact bush habit suits large containers of 5 gallons or more. Expect a modest harvest, since each dry bean plant yields only a small handful of seed.

When should I harvest Black Turtle beans?

Harvest when the pods are dry and brittle, usually towards the end of summer. If a hard frost is expected, harvest even if the pods are not fully dry.

Browse our full range of bean seeds.

Customer reviews

4.4 / 5 16 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Germinates reliably: Nearly every seed comes up, indoors or direct sown.

  • Thrives on neglect: Produces even when ignored, weedy or chewed back.

  • Heat and drought tough: Shrugs off heat and drought with only occasional water.

  • Heavy pod set: Twenty to thirty pods a plant; sow plenty for a big harvest.

  • Heads up: Plants get heavy and flop or climb; give them some support.

More to grow!

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