ORCA BUSH BEAN – BLACK & WHITE DWARF BEAN

ORCA BUSH BEAN – BLACK & WHITE DWARF BEAN (CERTIFIED ORGANIC)

A spectacular heirloom dwarf bean, appreciated for its black and white beans reminiscent of an orca. Productive, compact, and delicious, it's as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Description

Orca Bush Bean, also called ying-yang or calypso bean, is a compact and very productive heirloom variety. Its bicolour black and white beans are as beautiful as they are flavourful, perfect for soups, stews, and winter dishes. Young pods can be eaten fresh, while the dried beans offer excellent storage quality.

Its compact growth and high yield make it an ideal choice for small gardens, raised beds, and containers. A true conversation starter in the vegetable garden.

Where to grow Orca Bush Bean

Suited for zones 3 to 9, it prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Excellent for restricted gardens, containers, and raised beds.

History & traditional uses

A classic heirloom variety, the calypso bean has long been cultivated in North America and Europe for its beauty and productivity. Renowned for its quality as a dry bean, it is traditionally used in winter dishes and appreciated for its culinary versatility.

Information for the Canadian climate

• Zones 8-9: direct sow in late spring after the last frost.
• Zones 5-7: direct sow after frost or start indoors for an early advantage.
• Zones 3-4: start indoors then transplant after frost for a full harvest.

How to grow and harvest Orca Bush Bean

• Sowing: 2.5 cm deep; spacing of 10–15 cm.
• Watering: keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid overhead watering.
• Harvesting: harvest young for fresh consumption or let dry completely for dry beans.
• Maintenance: no staking required; mulch to retain moisture and limit weeds.

Tips for storing your seeds

• Allow pods to mature and dry completely on the plant.
• Harvest dry pods and shell the beans.
• Dry further if necessary, then store in an airtight container.
• Viability: up to 5 years.

Organic Certification

Certified organic by: Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)