Dragon's Tongue Bush Bean grows into a compact 12-18 inch plant that produces purple-streaked pods in just 55 days. These aren't ornamental curiosities; they're tender, buttery beans with a gentle flavor that belies their dramatic, mottled exterior. Space them 4 inches apart in full sun, and you'll have an abundant harvest of striking pods that are as easy to love as they look fierce.
Full Sun
Moderate
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18in H x 10in W
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Moderate
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The purple-streaked pods look intimidating but taste buttery and smooth, with a palate-friendly flavor that makes them irresistible fresh or cooked. Despite their "dragon" persona, these beans have a sheepish, approachable character that appeals to gardeners seeking both visual drama and reliable, tender harvests. The mottled exterior catches the eye while the tender texture and balanced flavor make them disappear quickly from the dinner plate.
These beans are best enjoyed fresh, where their tender pods and buttery texture shine. The striking purple streaks remain visible when cooked, making them an attractive addition to salads, stir-fries, or simply steamed and dressed with olive oil. Their mild, approachable flavor works well alongside delicate sauces or as part of composed vegetable dishes where their appearance can be appreciated.
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Direct sow Dragon's Tongue Bush Bean seeds into warm soil after the last frost date. Plant at the spacing specified for this variety and maintain consistent moisture until seedlings emerge.
Pick pods when they are tender and the purple streaks are vivid, typically around 55 days after planting. Harvest regularly to encourage continued production; pods that mature on the plant will signal the plant to stop flowering. The pods should snap cleanly when bent, indicating peak tenderness. Frequent harvesting keeps these beans producing through the season.
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