How to Grow Sanguineus Bean
Sanguineus Bean
Phaseolus vulgaris 'Sanguineus'
vegetableSanguineus beans, also known as Cranberry beans or Borlotti beans, are a distinctive variety of common bean featuring striking deep red or burgundy speckles on a cream-colored pod and seed. These beans are prized for their rich, slightly nutty flavor and are popular in Italian and Spanish cuisines. They transition from green snap beans to mature dry beans depending on harvest timing.
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Example Sanguineus Bean timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Sanguineus 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 Sanguineus Bean
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Sanguineus Bean dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9; can grow in zone 3 with protection. Prefers warm-season growing conditions
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Get my Sanguineus Bean timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
7-10 daysEmergence of first true leaves; seedlings are tender with light green foliage
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Thin to proper spacing once two true leaves appear
Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeksPlant develops compound leaves and bushy or vining structure depending on variety; no flowers yet
Maintain consistent moisture and provide support for pole varieties. Monitor for weeds. Begin light feeding with balanced fertilizer
Flowering
2-3 weeksSmall white, pink, or purple flowers appear in clusters along the stems
Continue consistent watering without wetting foliage. Support pole varieties. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizer which promotes foliage over flowers
Pod Development & Harvest (Green Stage)
3-4 weeks (starting around 60 days)Pods form with characteristic cream-colored background and red speckles, becoming tender and plump for snap bean use
Pick frequently to encourage continued production. Harvest when pods snap cleanly but before pods bulge with beans
Dry Mature Beans
30-40 days after green stage (90-100+ days from planting)Pods fully mature, harden, and brown; beans inside are fully developed and hard. Pods may split slightly showing mature beans
Stop watering once pods begin to brown. Leave on plant until pods are completely dry and brittle if weather permits, or pull plants and dry indoors
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick beetles and eggs; use row covers for young plants; spray with spinosad or pyrethrin if infestation is severe
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Increase humidity and water frequency; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; avoid sulfur in hot weather
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; remove infected leaves; apply sulfur fungicide if needed
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Improve air flow; spray with sulfur or baking soda solution; remove heavily infected leaves
Uses
Versatile Cooking Bean
CulinarySanguineus beans are excellent in soups, stews, and pasta dishes. They hold their shape well when cooked and develop a creamy texture. The nutty flavor complements Italian and Spanish preparations beautifully. [source]
Fresh Snap Bean
CulinaryYoung, tender pods can be harvested and prepared like green beans—steamed, sautéed, or added to salads. They offer a mild bean flavor with a crisp texture. [source]
Protein-Rich Legume
MedicinalSanguineus beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals including iron and manganese. They support sustained energy and digestive health. [source]
Long-Term Storage
HouseholdDried Sanguineus beans store for 1-2 years in cool, dry conditions, making them a reliable pantry staple for year-round cooking. [source]
Garden Nitrogen Fixation
WildlifeLike all beans, Sanguineus varieties host nitrogen-fixing bacteria in root nodules, naturally enriching soil for subsequent crops and reducing fertilizer needs. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest as snap beans when pods are 4-6 inches long, tender, and the red speckles just begin to appear—typically around 60-70 days. Pick pods frequently to prolong production. For dry beans, wait until pods are fully brown and crispy (90-100+ days), then shell and dry beans completely before storage. Test dryness by attempting to crack a bean between teeth; properly dried beans should not dent
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Sanguineus beans are called 'Cranberry beans' in North America because of their distinctive red speckles resembling cranberries on cream-colored pods and seeds
- 🌱 The name 'Borlotti' (used in Italy) comes from the town of Borlotta in Italy, where the variety has been cultivated for centuries and is a cornerstone of traditional risotto and pasta dishes
- 🌱 A single sanguineus plant can produce 20-50 pods over its growing season if harvested regularly as snap beans, making it highly productive in home gardens
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