Vigorous plants producing a tremendous crop of very long, thin green pods up to 45cm in length, hence their name. Also known as ‘asparagus bean’. Flavour is at its best when picked young and tender.

These beans require a minimum soil temperature of 20C, so seed sowing must be delayed until these conditions prevail, usually from May in succession to August. Earlier sowings can be made under glass during March and April for earliest crops. Prepare the soil prior to sowing to create a level, weed free bed. Plant seed in rows 90cm apart with seed stations every 40cm in the rows. Using a dibber place 3 to 4 seeds at each station 3 to 5cm deep. Cover seeds with soil and firm.

Water regularly after sowing and throughout the cropping period. Supporting poles, canes, or netting, at least 180cm tall should be in place before sowing. Mulching between rows with straw will conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Continually pick the beans before they become too large and coarse.

Serving suggestion - Hearty ham &: cannelloni bean soup. Remove seeds from pods, rinse and boil seeds until tender. Add a ham hock, chopped carrots, celery, onion. Add mustard powder and bay leaves, stir well and simmer. Serve with Italian bread.