The Great Northern bean plant is a popular choice for many gardeners, known for its versatility in the kitchen. Understanding its physical characteristics helps in identifying and cultivating this common vegetable. The plant progresses through distinct growth stages, each with specific visual cues.
Overall Plant Form and Size
The Great Northern bean plant exhibits a compact, bush-type growth habit. It reaches a mature height of about 16 to 24 inches (40 to 60 cm). Its bush form allows it to maintain an upright, self-supporting structure without extensive trellising, making it practical for various garden sizes. Some varieties may show semi-vining tendencies, though they primarily remain within the bush category.
The plant appears dense, with foliage filling its short stature. Its compact nature means it occupies a defined garden space, making it suitable for row planting or container gardening. This growth habit contrasts with pole bean varieties, which develop long vines that require vertical support.
Leaves and Stems
The foliage of the Great Northern bean plant is green, though shades can vary. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaf stalk bearing three leaflets. These leaflets are ovate or heart-shaped, contributing to a full, leafy appearance.
The stems are sturdy to support the plant’s upright bush form. They are green when young and become thicker and more rigid as the plant matures. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stems, creating a balanced spread of greenery.
Flowers and Pods
Great Northern bean plants produce flowers that are white. These small flowers often appear in clusters, emerging from leaf axils along the stems. The bloom period signifies the beginning of pod formation, a key stage.
Following pollination, the plant develops slender, straight pods. These pods initially appear green and lengthen to about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) as the beans inside form. The pods contribute to the plant’s appearance during the growing season, hanging from the stems as they mature.
Great Northern Beans
As Great Northern bean pods mature, the beans inside transform in appearance. Initially, developing beans are small and soft within green pods. As they fill, they become larger and take on their kidney shape.
For dry bean harvesting, pods change color from green to yellow, then to tan or buckskin, becoming dry and crisp. At this stage, the beans are smooth, off-white to pure white, and about 1/2 inch long. These mature, dried beans are firm and rattle within the pod when ready for harvest.