How to Grow Borlotto Lamon Bean
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Borlotto Lamon Bean
Phaseolus vulgaris
vegetableBorlotto Lamon is a prized Italian heirloom bean variety known for its distinctive red-speckled cream-colored pods and creamy texture when cooked. Originally from the Veneto region of northeastern Italy, these beans are highly valued in Italian cuisine for their rich, nutty flavor and ability to hold their shape during cooking. The plants are bushy, determinate types that produce abundant yields of medium-sized pods.
When should you plant Borlotto Lamon Bean in your zone?
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Example Borlotto Lamon Bean timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Borlotto Lamon Bean
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Borlotto Lamon Bean
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Borlotto Lamon Bean dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Best in zones 5-8; can succeed in zones 3-9 with proper timing
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Get my Borlotto Lamon Bean timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
7-10 daysCotyledons emerge and first true leaves develop. Plants are low and compact.
Keep soil consistently moist. Provide full sun. Protect from slugs and cutworms. Thin to proper spacing once true leaves appear.
Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeksBushy plant develops multiple stems and compound leaves. Plant establishes strong root system.
Water deeply and regularly. Begin light fertilization with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Monitor for pests like spider mites and bean beetles.
Flowering
2-3 weeksPlant produces clusters of small white or light purple flowers along leaf axils.
Maintain consistent watering; inconsistent moisture can cause flower drop. Continue light fertilizing but reduce nitrogen to encourage fruiting. Do not overwater.
Pod Development & Green Shell Stage
3-4 weeksPods form quickly after flowering, growing to 4-5 inches long with distinctive red/burgundy speckles on cream background.
Water consistently for tender pods. Pick beans regularly for fresh shell beans (when pods snap cleanly). This encourages continued production.
Maturity & Drying
2-3 weeksPods dry on the plant, becoming papery and brown. Seeds inside reach full size and harden.
Reduce watering significantly to encourage drying. Leave pods on plant until fully dry and brittle. Harvest before fall rains if in humid climates.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick beetles and egg clusters daily. Use neem oil or spinosad spray. Plant repellent herbs like basil and marigolds nearby.
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap. Maintain consistent humidity and moisture.
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Water at soil level to keep foliage dry. Remove infected leaves immediately. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
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Hand-pick in early morning or evening. Use beer traps or copper barriers. Encourage natural predators like ground beetles.
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Improve air circulation by pruning lower leaves. Spray with baking soda solution (1 tbsp per gallon water) or sulfur dust.
Uses
Minestrone & Italian Soups
CulinaryBorlotto Lamon beans are essential to traditional Italian minestrone and pasta e fagioli soups, where their creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor enhance rich, vegetable-forward broths. These beans maintain their shape exceptionally well during long cooking times, making them ideal for soups. [source]
Risotto Accompaniment
CulinaryIn northern Italian cuisine, particularly Veneto, these beans are traditionally paired with risotto as a protein-rich side dish. Their creamy interior and firm exterior provide excellent texture contrast. [source]
Fresh Shell Bean Cooking
CulinaryHarvest at the green shell stage for tender, fresh beans that can be steamed, sautéed with garlic and olive oil, or added to salads. Fresh Borlotto beans have a delicate flavor that is superior to dried versions. [source]
Dried Bean Storage & Winter Protein
CulinaryThese beans store exceptionally well when dried, providing a reliable winter protein source. Their natural creaminess when rehydrated and cooked makes them versatile for countless bean dishes. [source]
Heirloom Seed Saving
HouseholdBorlotto Lamon is an excellent choice for home gardeners practicing seed saving. The beans are easy to harvest when fully dry, and seeds remain viable for 3-4 years when stored properly in cool, dry conditions. [source]
Harvest Tips
For fresh shell beans, harvest when pods are mature but still green and tender, typically 60-70 days after planting. Pods should snap cleanly when bent. For dried beans, allow pods to dry on the plant until brown and brittle (75-90 days), then harvest on a dry day. Shell by hand or store dried pods in cool, dry place for 1-2 weeks before shelling. Store dried beans in airtight containers for up to 1 year.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Borlotto Lamon beans have Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in the European Union, meaning beans grown in the Lamon region of Italy's Veneto are officially recognized and protected, similar to Champagne or Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- 🌱 The name 'Borlotto' comes from the Italian word 'borlare,' meaning to wrinkle, referring to the characteristic wrinkled appearance of mature dried beans.
- 🌱 These beans are nitrogen-fixing plants that form symbiotic relationships with soil bacteria, actually improving soil fertility as they grow—making them excellent for crop rotation and sustainable gardening practices.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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