Sword Bean Seeds - Shironata Mame

Download Free Vegetable Growing Guide PDF

Other Common Names: Dao dou, habas, kacang parang, lal kudsum bal, nata mame, thua dap, to dou, and wal awara.

How to Grow Shironata Mame Sword Beans

Prepare fertile soil with organic matter in a sunny spot. Plant beans directly into the moist soil and keep the area lightly moist until they sprout. Once the plants have an established root system they are not as sensitive to over or under-watering. Train vines to climb a trellis. Growing plants will not tolerate a frost but mature beans aren’t usually impacted. Periodically check for pests throughout the season. Plant near other crops that need lots of nitrogen. When done harvesting, leave the roots in the ground to decay. This will release the nitrogen into the soil for the next crop.

Harvesting Shironata Mame Sword Beans

Harvest when 4-6" long and pods are still tender. To harvest mature seeds, wait until the pods are no longer tender and the swollen beans inside are easily visible. Mature seeds are not recommended for consumption.

Culinary Tips

Prepare young beans as you would green beans. Thoroughly cook them and they will be delicious in steamed dishes or stir-fries. If desired, prepare mature seeds by boiling to neutralize any toxins.

Tips From Our Gardeners

“It is so fun to watch this vigorous vine grow so quickly. My favorite way to eat these is in a stir fry with strong ginger flavors. Try substituting sword beans for snow peas or green beans in a recipe. You won’t be disappointed!”

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Seeds Per Package

• 6 g packet - Approximately 6 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 85 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 350 Seeds