VegetableBean
Oriental Yard Long Bean
The Oriental Yard Long Bean transforms any garden into an Asian-inspired wonderland with pods that stretch an astounding 18 to 36 inches long, sometimes growing several inches in a single day. Also known as asparagus beans or Chinese long beans, these vigorous vines climb 9 to 12 feet high through zones 3-11, producing tender, pencil-thin pods ready for harvest in 80 to 89 days (though some sources report as early as 60 days). Their striking purple flowers bloom in pairs before developing into these remarkable serpentine pods that seem to defy nature's usual proportions.
Photo © True Leaf Market
Growing Conditions
USDA Zone
3-11
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile Loam
Growth Stats
144 in
Height
TypeVining
Spacing
4
Plant Profile
Sunlight
Full Sun
Water
Moderate
Zones
3-11
Size
144in H x ?in W
Growth
—
Care
High
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Highlights
These remarkable beans are nature's skipping rope, with slender pods that can reach three feet in length while maintaining perfect tenderness and crispness. The vigorous climbing vines have minds of their own, eagerly wrapping around any support structure with enthusiasm that matches their prolific production. Unlike traditional green beans, these heat-loving performers actually thrive in hot, humid conditions where other beans struggle, making them more tolerant of weather fluctuations. Their rapid vertical growth and continuous harvesting potential make them a space-efficient choice for gardeners seeking maximum yield from minimal ground space.
Common Uses
Oriental Yard Long Beans excel in stir-fries where their length creates visual drama and their crisp texture stands up to high heat cooking methods. They're perfect for Asian-style curries and soups, adding both substance and striking appearance to dishes. Their tender, flavorful pods make excellent additions to fresh salads when blanched briefly, and their unique length makes them ideal for pickling in long jars. The beans are always eaten as snap varieties while the pods remain young and tender.
Growing Timeline
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Care Instructions
Transplant Outdoors
These beans do not transplant well, so direct sowing is strongly recommended over starting indoors.
Direct Sow
Sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost date when soil temperatures have warmed to at least 65°F. Plant seeds in loose, well-drained soil, spacing them 4 to 6 inches apart within rows and keeping rows at least 24 inches apart.
Harvesting
Harvest pods when they reach 15 to 18 inches long and remain no thicker than a pencil, at which point they're tender, crisp, and flavorful. Gently grasp each pod and snap or cut it from the vine to avoid damaging the plant. Regular harvesting encourages continuous pod production throughout the season, and pods should be collected while young and tender before they become tough and fibrous with maturity.
Growing Calendar
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Companion Planting
Ecology & Traits
Edible
Scientific Classification
Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis
Family
Fabaceae
Genus
Vigna
Growth Habit
Vining
Native Status
L48 (I)PR (I)VI (I)