Christmas Pole Lima Beans arranged on a white background.
A close-up micro view of pair of Christmas Pole Lima Beans on a white background.
A dried pod with loose Christmas Pole Lima Beans on a white background.
A circle of Christmas Pole Lima Beans in various stages of maturity.
Five Christmas Pole Lima Beans arranged on a white background.
Rows of Christmas Pole Lima Beans at a variety of maturity stages.
Three Christmas Pole Lima Beans in a pod against a white background.
Christmas Pole Lima Bean pods and beans in a variety of stages of maturity.
Christmas Pole Lima Beans arranged on a white background.
A close-up micro view of pair of Christmas Pole Lima Beans on a white background.
A dried pod with loose Christmas Pole Lima Beans on a white background.
A circle of Christmas Pole Lima Beans in various stages of maturity.
Five Christmas Pole Lima Beans arranged on a white background.
Rows of Christmas Pole Lima Beans at a variety of maturity stages.
Three Christmas Pole Lima Beans in a pod against a white background.
Christmas Pole Lima Bean pods and beans in a variety of stages of maturity.

Lima Bean Seeds,
Christmas Pole

3.939 ReviewsSKU: #LB104Min. seed count: 15
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Description

(Phaseolus lunatus) Pole bean. Hailing from Lima, Peru, this chestnut-flavored Lima bean has long built its reputation as an American winter staple. In areas where chestnuts may not be readily available, generations of homesteaders have used this beloved variety as a delicious substitute. In different locales, it's known as either the Chestnut Lima or Christmas Lima because it has classically been reserved for special holiday festivities. We think this giant-seeded, meaty delicacy will win over even the biggest of Lima bean skeptics. The 10-foot vines produce 4- to 6-inch pods filled with extra large beans about 3/4 inches in diameter.

Growing Tips: The 10-foot vines produce 4-6 inch pods filled with extra large beans about 3/4 inch in diameter. This bean thrives in warm, sunny environments and produces high yields even in hot weather. Maintain even soil moisture, especially during dry spells, to prevent flower and pod drop.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Phaseolus lunatus
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Pole
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–8
Days to Maturity
95
Planting Depth
1–1 ½ in.
Plant Spacing
6 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Christmas Lima beans in the spring, about 3-4 weeks after the last frost, when the soil temperature has warmed to at least 60 F. The ideal temperature for growing Lima beans is 70-90 F. In colder climates, starting the seeds indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost can give them a head start​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil enriched with compost, planting them 1 to 1½ inches deep and spacing them 6 inches apart. Set up trellises or poles at planting time, as these vigorous vines can grow up to 10 feet tall and require support to thrive. Ensure they receive full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day​.

How to Grow

Lima beans need consistent moisture but should not sit in waterlogged soil. Water them regularly, especially during flowering and pod setting, and mulch around the plants to retain moisture. They do not require much nitrogen fertilizer due to their nitrogen-fixing ability, but adding compost or aged manure at planting time can help provide necessary phosphorus and potassium.

How to Save Seeds

  • Limas are a self-pollinating annual, but insects can cause accidental cross pollination between different Lima bean varieties. In order to prevent any chance of accidental crossing, separate different varieties for saving by 500 feet.
  • To save seed, allow pods to dry and become brittle. The seeds inside should be very hard, so you cannot dent them with a fingernail.
  • If expecting rain or frost, you can pull mostly dried pods and dry them further indoors.
  • Store in a cool, dark, dry place.

FAQ

Are Christmas Lima beans suitable for small gardens?

Yes, but they require a tall support structure due to their vigorous growth. They can also be grown in large containers with adequate support.

How long do Christmas Lima beans take to mature?

Christmas Lima beans typically mature in about 95 days, depending on growing conditions.

What are the common pests and diseases for Christmas Lima beans?

Caterpillars can be a problem, especially for young plants. Regular inspection and use of caterpillar-specific insecticides can help manage them. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like blight and rust.

Browse our full range of lima bean seeds.

Customer reviews

3.9 / 5 39 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Vigorous climber: Vines run 10 to 20 feet; give them a strong, tall trellis.

  • Buttery, creamy flavor: Big speckled beans cook up meaty; great in soups and with cornbread.

  • Bears until frost: Heavy picking from late summer right up to a hard freeze.

  • Takes the heat: Thrives through hot, humid summers when other beans fade.

  • Heads up: Pods are slow to fill; plant early and be patient.

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