How to Grow Henderson's Lima Bean (Sieva Type)
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Henderson's Lima Bean (Sieva Type)
Phaseolus lunatus
vegetableHenderson's Lima is a prolific, heat-tolerant lima bean variety producing small, creamy butter beans on compact, bush-type plants. These are ideal for home gardeners seeking reliable yields without trellising. The beans have a rich, buttery flavor and are excellent fresh, dried, or frozen.
When should you plant Henderson's Lima Bean (Sieva Type) in your zone?
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Example Henderson's Lima Bean (Sieva Type) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Henderson's Lima Bean (Sieva Type)
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 Henderson's Lima Bean (Sieva Type)
Around Jun 21≈ 65 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9; can be grown in zones 3-4 with warm-season cultivation
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Get my Henderson's Lima Bean (Sieva Type) timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksCotyledons emerge 7-10 days after planting. First true leaves appear within 2-3 weeks. Plant is low and compact.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to proper spacing if direct sown. Protect from cold if frost threatens.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops sturdy stems and compound leaflets. Bush form becomes bushy and rounded, typically 18-24 inches tall. Root system expands.
Maintain consistent watering. Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Apply balanced fertilizer mid-season if soil is poor. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Flowering
2-3 weeksDelicate yellow or white flowers appear in clusters along the stems. Bees actively visit flowers. Flowering is continuous over several weeks.
Maintain even moisture during this critical stage. Do not allow soil to dry out. Avoid excessive nitrogen. Let bees and other pollinators work; hand-pollinate if bee activity is low.
Pod Development
2-3 weeksFlowers fade and small pods form and elongate. Pods gradually fill with developing beans. Pods measure 2-3 inches at maturity.
Continue regular watering. Provide consistent moisture for optimal pod and bean fill. Monitor for pests and diseases. Support plants with mulch if needed.
Harvest-Ready
Variable; 2-4 weeks of harvest windowPods are full-sized, plump, and firm. Beans inside are clearly visible through the pod. Pods may begin to dry if left on plant for shell beans.
Harvest regularly to encourage continued production. Pick when pods snap cleanly from the stem. For dried beans, allow pods to fully mature and dry on the plant.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick beetles and yellow egg clusters daily. Use row covers on young plants. Apply neem oil or spinosad if infestation is severe.
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
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Increase humidity by misting. Spray with neem oil or sulfur dust. Avoid excessive heat and drought stress.
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Use row covers early season. Hand-pick beetles. Apply spinosad or pyrethrin if necessary.
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Ensure good air circulation. Avoid wetting foliage. Apply sulfur dust or baking soda spray (1 tbsp per gallon water).
Uses
Fresh Butter Beans
CulinaryShell and cook fresh butter beans as a delicate side dish; they require minimal cooking and have a creamy, nutty flavor. Excellent steamed, sautéed with garlic, or added to soups and stews. [source]
Dried Beans & Storage
CulinaryDry beans store for 1-2 years in cool, dry conditions. Use in winter soups, salads, and braises for sustained nutrition and protein. [source]
Nutritional & Digestive Benefits
MedicinalLima beans are rich in fiber, folate, and plant-based protein. They support digestive health and stable blood sugar levels when cooked properly. [source]
Seed Saving
HouseholdHenderson's Lima produces reliable seed for home saving. Allow pods to fully dry on plant, then shell and store seeds in cool, dry conditions for next season. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeLima bean flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects, supporting pollinators and ecosystem health in the garden. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For fresh/butter beans: Harvest when pods are full, firm, and still green (55-65 days). Pods snap cleanly from the stem. Shell immediately for best flavor. For dried beans: Leave pods on plant until fully mature and dried; pods turn brown/papery. Harvest when beans rattle inside pods. Dry indoors for 2-3 weeks before storage.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Henderson's Lima was developed in the late 1800s and remains one of the most reliable and productive bush lima varieties for American home gardeners.
- 🌱 Lima beans are named after Lima, Peru, where they originated thousands of years ago and were a staple crop of pre-Columbian civilizations.
- 🌱 The 'butter bean' nickname refers to the creamy, buttery texture and flavor of the cooked beans, which is more pronounced in Sieva-type (small) limas than in larger Fordhook varieties.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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