Climbing French Bean 'Cobra'

'Cobra' is a premier climbing French bean variety that has become a contemporary classic in UK vegetable gardens. It is an F1 hybrid valued for combining the heavy-cropping nature of a commercial bean with the superior flavour of a garden variety. It produces exceptionally long, straight, round pods that are stringless and remain tender even if they grow quite large. The beans are a vibrant mid-green and have a crisp, succulent texture. As a climbing variety, 'Cobra' requires a sturdy support system, such as a traditional wigwam of bamboo canes, reaching a height of about 1.8 to 2 metres. It is noted for its early start and its ability to continue producing beans over a long period from July right through to October. The pale violet flowers are also quite attractive. In the UK, it is best started indoors in May or sown directly in early June once the soil has warmed. Regular picking is the key to maintaining productivity; the more you harvest, the more the plant will produce.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H2 — down to 1°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep.