Bean - Multi-Purpose - Kaiapoi Red Dwarf

NZH. We have a long history with this bean as it is one of the first beans we grew for seed commercially, back in the Wairarapa many years ago. I had lost track of it over the years and was delighted to be given it by Jenny Freemantle, our friend and seed grower, whom we met while living in the Wairarapa. This bean is known by several names, Kaiapoi Pink Seeded Bush and Kaiapoi Red Seed Bush also feature. A beautiful red bean and indeed a bush or dwarf type we have settled on the above, as Richard Watson from Sentinel Seeds, a formidable South Island seed grower, was one of the original growers of this line when it was first gifted to Koanga and he recalls that as its true name. One can only assume with Kaiapoi in its name, that this bean has been grown in this Canterbury town before being distributed out around the country. Regardless of what this bean is called, it is one worth trying as it is a prolific producer and does not require a trellis! Win win in our book. The beans are flattish, long and delicious at the snap/green bean stage when picked young or leave for a great dried bean at the end of season. It is worth noting that it has been likened to other varieties “The Prince” and “Canadian Wonder.” Perhaps it arrived to these shores by one of these names originally. It has been in NZ since 1873, so it is well adapted to our climate and a NZ heirloom in its own right.

Sow in trays in glasshouse in September or direct in the garden when chance of frost has passed. From trays prick out when true leaves appear and transplant into fertile soil at 15-20cm spacing under a trellis for support. For autumn crop repeat sowing in January/February.

20 seeds.