A vigorous climbing bean with deep-purple, stringless pods that turn green on cooking. Heavy-cropping and easy, needing a trellis or teepee to climb.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 2.5 m tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Bean 'Purple King'
Phaseolus vulgaris 'Purple King' is an fast-growing edible plant in the Fabaceae family. It reaches around 2.5 m tall at maturity.
Where to grow Bean 'Purple King'
Bean 'Purple King' suits warm-temperate, subtropical and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Bean 'Purple King' does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Bean 'Purple King' is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Bean 'Purple King' in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Bean 'Purple King' in the garden
Bean 'Purple King' earns its place for edible harvests.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Bean 'Purple King' with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Bean 'Purple King'
Plant Sale lists Bean 'Purple King' as seed and seedlings. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Bean 'Purple King' seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.