Pole beans are also known as cornfield beans or climbing beans and fall into a category of beans with a slightly larger pod and more prominent string. One such bean that is very desirable is the Coal Camp bean.
Coal Camp is an heirloom pole bean that originated in West Virginia and produces purplish-green colored pods. The plant produces long runs, so a tall trellis is necessary. They are traditionally picked when the seeds are plump but still forming inside the pod and require stringing. Research also has shown that these beans provide more protein and fiber.
The Coal Camp bean also has shown to do well in our cooler mountain climates because the warmer temperature seems to create a tougher hull or pod, and when produced from locally grown seed, the overall outcome is a very tender and tasty bean.
When cooked for 30 minutes, the bean is very rich and tender. This also makes a great dry soup bean, and the flavor is very meaty with a firm texture. Unlike bush dry beans whose pods often rot in late summer rains, this variety matures seeds quickly and is easy to pick before destructive rains. Seeds are coal black to dark brown in color.
If you are looking for a new variety of beans with a desirable taste and traits, the Coal Camp bean and other heritage beans are worth considering for the climate and growing season experienced in West Virginia and throughout Appalachia.
By David Richmond, WVU Extension Agent – Raleigh and Summers Counties