Kokoma is a pole bean with genuine character, producing beautiful large seeds striped in dark markings over tan and blue-gray backgrounds. This Phaseolus vulgaris cultivar originates from the high desert and matures quickly, making it a striking addition to any vegetable garden. Plant it on a trellis with 4 inches between seeds and 18 inches between rows, keeping soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It prefers moderate water and germinates best when soil reaches 60-75°F, though be aware it's sensitive to day length and performs better in southern latitudes than in cooler northern regions.
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Moderate
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Moderate
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The striking seed appearance alone makes Kokoma worth growing; those distinctive dark stripes over dual-colored backgrounds make each harvest feel like collecting something rare. As a fast-maturing pole bean from the high desert, it adapted to intense sun and sparse water, giving it real vigor once established. The day-length sensitivity means it's bred for specific climates, so southern gardeners will find it particularly rewarding.
Kokoma produces dry beans suitable for storage and cooking. The large, visually distinctive seeds can be used in soups, stews, and traditional bean dishes, while also being striking enough to save for seed stock due to their beautiful striping patterns.
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Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost date when soil temperature reaches 60-75°F. Space seeds 4 inches apart along rows spaced 18 inches apart, planting into soil with pH 6.0-7.0. Provide a pole or trellis for the vines to climb.
Allow pods to mature fully on the vine until beans inside are dry and the pod has turned brown and brittle. The large, striped seeds are ready to harvest when the pod can be easily snapped and no moisture remains inside. Store dried beans in a cool, dry location.
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“Kokoma comes from the high desert and is part of Native Seeds/SEARCH's Seed Bank Collection, an organization dedicated to preserving indigenous and heirloom crops of the American Southwest. This variety represents the agricultural heritage of arid regions, where beans were bred over generations to thrive with limited water and intense sunlight. By growing Kokoma, you're participating in the continuation of this seed-saving tradition.”