Phaseolus vulgaris

Bird Egg Blue is a rare heirloom bush bean known for its striking seeds that resemble miniature speckled bird eggs. The beans range in colour from deep blue to purple with contrasting brown and white flecks, making them as visually appealing as they are productive. Originally traced to traditional dry bean cultivation, this variety is compact and bush-forming, maturing in roughly 85 days under South African growing conditions.

Although it can be eaten fresh when young and tender, Bird Egg Blue is most often grown as a dry bean. Once fully matured and dried, the seeds are ideal for rich, hearty dishes like soups, stews and slow-cooked breyani. Their dense texture and mild, nutty flavour pair beautifully with savoury spices and seasonal vegetables.

Direct sow seeds into well-prepared soil once danger of frost has passed. Plant seeds 2–3 cm deep, spaced 10–15 cm apart in rows at least 40 cm apart. Optimal germination occurs between 18–24°C, with seedlings typically emerging in 7–14 days. Do not pre-soak as beans are susceptible to rotting in cool, moist soil.

Bird Egg Blue prefers full sun and benefits from consistent moisture during flowering and pod set. Allow pods to dry on the plant for best colour and storage quality. Harvest when pods are fully dry and crisp; thresh gently to remove seeds. Properly dried beans store well in airtight containers for future use or replanting.

As a member of the Phaseolus genus, this variety will thrive when inoculated with a nitrogen-fixing bacterial culture. For best results, use SoyGro Beanflo to promote natural nitrogen uptake, improve plant health, and enhance yields. This beneficial inoculant helps establish healthy root systems, especially in soils low in organic matter or previously unused for legumes.

Standard packet contains approx. 25 seeds
Petite packet contains approx. 10 seeds

Using Beanflo-Rhizobium bacteria when planting your bean seed is the most cost effective way of putting nitrogen fixing bacteria into your soil, creating healthier soil for a more productive harvest.