Cherokee Black Bean (Pole)

Cherokee Black, also known as Trail of Tears, is a historic heirloom pole bean cherished for its cultural significance and robust flavor. The green pods turn purple as they dry, revealing black seeds inside. Maturing in about 85 days, it is excellent both for fresh eating and for drying into storage beans. It is named in honor of the Cherokee people, who carried it on the Trail of Tears.

At a glance

• Variety: Cherokee Black Bean (pole), Trail of Tears
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO
• Plant habit: Pole, climbing
• Days to maturity: About 85 days
• Pods and seeds: Green pods turning purple, black seeds
• Sun: Full sun

Best for

• Fresh snap beans
• Dry bean storage
• Soups and stews
• Heritage and cultural gardens
• Vertical and trellised growing

How to grow

Direct sow in full sun in well-drained soil after the last frost, and provide a trellis or poles for the climbing vines. Pick young for snap beans, or let the pods dry on the vine for black storage beans.

Flavor profile

Rich and robust, tender as a fresh snap bean and hearty as a dried bean in soups and stews.

About MIgardener

MIgardener is a Michigan-based family seed company offering affordable heirloom and non-GMO seeds, with a mission to make home gardening accessible to everyone.