Snake Bean Red Noodle is an impressive and delicious variety of the long yard bean, known for its extraordinary deep red pods that can grow up to 60CMS long. Originally from China and Southeast Asia, this bean has been grown for centuries as both an ornamental and productive vegetable. Today it is enjoyed widely throughout Asia and is becoming increasingly popular in Australian gardens due to its striking colour, heat tolerance, and generous harvests.

Nutritionally, Red Noodle beans are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, iron, and dietary fibre. They are low in calories and contain antioxidants that support general health and well being. When cooked, the pods keep much of their vibrant colour and develop a tender, slightly sweet flavour. They are excellent in stir-fries, curries, tempura, and salads, and they hold their shape beautifully when steamed or lightly sautéed.

This plant thrives in warmth and behaves much like a climbing runner bean, producing long vines that need support such as a trellis, fence, or teepee. The vines grow quickly in hot weather and begin producing flowers and beans only a few weeks after planting. Because they love heat, they are especially well suited to the hot parts of Australia, but they will also grow happily in southern states during the warmer months. The more you harvest, the more they will produce!

How to Grow From Seed:

Sow seeds directly into the garden in late spring to early summer when the soil has warmed and all risk of frost has passed.

Plant seeds about 2 to 3 cms deep in well-drained soil and keep moist until established.

Space plants about 30 cms apart and provide support for climbing. Choose a full sun position, water regularly, and avoid overly rich soil as this encourages excessive leaf growth instead of flowers and pods. Beans will usually begin to harvest in around sixty to seventy days. Pick pods while long, slender, and tender to encourage continuous production.