Organic ‘Henderson Lima’ dwarf bean

Organic dwarf lima bean ‘Henderson’ (Phaseolus lunatus) from the seed company Gaia, an early, productive and reliable heirloom variety

The ‘Henderson’ Lima bean, introduced in 1889 by the New York-based Peter Henderson Company, is a dwarf heirloom variety, highly productive and disease-resistant . It produces small, creamy-white beans , prized for their tender texture , mild flavor, and excellent quality both in cooking and canning. Early-maturing, robust, and thriving even in less than ideal conditions, its bushy habit makes it easy to grow in the home vegetable garden. A reliable, flavorful Lima bean, appreciated for over a century.

Companion plants : Corn, Carrot, Cabbage, Cucumber, Peas, Radish, Potato, Squash, Nasturtium, Rosemary
Nefarious plants : Alliums, Beetroot

Spread/Habit : Dwarf, bushy
Plant height : 30 to 45 cm
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Certification : Environmentally friendly product
Special features : Introduced in 1889, early maturing, small cream-colored bean, disease-resistant, reliable in difficult conditions

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Soft, creamy, delicate
Cold tolerance : Not frost tolerant

Farming method

Soak the seeds for a maximum of 8 hours in lukewarm water to speed up germination (longer soaking will result in failure). Sow directly after the last frost , at a depth of 2.5 cm .
Space the plants 7 to 10 cm apart and the rows 45 to 60 cm apart . Germination is slower than that of common beans: approximately 18 days at around 2627 C .
Place in full sun (level 3) and water moderately (level 2). For a continuous harvest of fresh beans, sow every 3 weeks .

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest when the pods and seeds are fully ripe . Allow sufficient air circulation around the plants for proper drying of the pods intended for dried beans.
For preservation, only freeze completely dry beans to avoid altering the texture.

Usage ideas

In succotash , a classic recipe with lima beans
In stews or mild simmered dishes
In a smooth, creamy broad bean pure
In home preserves
As a protein-rich plant-based side dish

The Lima ‘Henderson’ bean is a valuable, tasty and surprisingly resilient heirloom variety, perfect for northern vegetable gardens and gardeners looking for a reliable and productive legume.