Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans arranged with Chinese props on a white background.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans with Chinese money on light blue background.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans in a variety of maturity stages arranged on a white background.
A close-up view of Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans with foliage.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans are cut and stacked like Lincoln Logs.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans with bean salad and sauteed beans in bowls.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans growing in the garden at Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans arranged with Chinese props on a white background.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans with Chinese money on light blue background.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans in a variety of maturity stages arranged on a white background.
A close-up view of Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans with foliage.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans are cut and stacked like Lincoln Logs.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans with bean salad and sauteed beans in bowls.
Chinese Red Noodle Long Beans growing in the garden at Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co.

Noodle Bean Seeds,
Chinese Red Noodle

4.2187 Reviews#LG109 · 25 seeds
Price
Regular price $4.00
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $4.00
Save $-4
/

FREE U.S. SHIPPING2-YEAR GUARANTEE

Description

(Vigna unguiculata) Pole. Long, flowing vines crank out stunning 18-inch pods in a rich, deep red that stops folks in their tracks. These tender, slightly nutty beans keep much of their bold color even when sautéed, making them as striking on the plate as in the garden. Ready in about 80 days, this Chinese heirloom thrives in a wide range of conditions and produces steadily through the heat of summer. A true showstopper with real flavor to back it up.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Vigna unguiculata
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Pole
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–8
Days to Maturity
80
Planting Depth
½–1 in.
Plant Spacing
6 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Plant Chinese Red Noodle long beans after the danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature is consistently above 60 F, ideally between 75-95 F. In cooler climates, starting seeds indoors 3-6 weeks before the last frost can give the plants a head start​. 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: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil, ideally with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Enrich the soil with compost or aged manure. Soak seeds overnight before planting.

Planting: Sow seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep and space plants 6 inches apart. If using a trellis, space rows about 18 inches apart. Trellises are essential as these beans are vigorous climbers.

Watering: Keep the soil moderately moist until germination, then maintain consistent moisture, especially during flowering and pod formation. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

How to Grow

Full sun is essential, with 8-12 hours of direct sunlight daily. Provide a sturdy trellis or poles for the vines to climb, which helps maximize air circulation and sun exposure. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to more foliage and less fruit. Switch to a fertilizer higher in potassium and phosphorus as the plants begin to flower​.

How to Save Seeds

  • This self-pollinating annual in the legume family will not readily cross with other nearby varieties, so a distance of 10-20 feet between other cowpea or long bean varieties is sufficient to ensure pure seed.
  • It is super easy to save seed; just allow pods to dry and wait for seeds to become dry and hard.
  • You should not be able to dent the seed with your thumbnail.
  • Store seeds in a cool, dark, dry place.

FAQ

Can I grow Chinese Red Noodle long beans in containers?

While it's possible, it is not the best choice because of their vigorous growth and need for substantial support. If you choose to use containers, ensure they are large and deep enough to support the plant and provide a sturdy trellis.

What pests should I watch out for?

Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Regular monitoring and natural predators like ladybugs can help manage these pests. Organic treatments such as neem oil or insecticidal soap are also effective.

How do I know when to harvest Chinese Red Noodle long beans?

Harvest the beans when they are about the thickness of a pencil and 12-18 inches long. Overripe pods will become tough and stringy. Frequent harvesting encourages more production.

How can I store long beans after harvesting?

Store fresh beans in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, blanch and freeze the beans to preserve their color and flavor.

Browse our full range of long bean seeds.

Customer reviews

4.2 / 5 187 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Heavy producer: Once the vines take off, picking is hard to keep up with.

  • Thrives in heat: Shrugs off hot, humid summers where green beans fail.

  • Nutty when cooked: Mild, nutty flavor sauteed or stir-fried; some find it bland.

  • Hummingbird magnet: Purple flowers draw hummingbirds; ants and wasps come too.

  • Heads up: Slow to start and needs a long, hot season; cool climates lag.

More to grow!

See all Bean Seeds, Noodle