Phaseolus vulgaris
The Black Valentine germinates well in cool soil so can be planted early, with masses of delicious 6” green beans ready in 50 days, and dried ones said to make a legendary black bean soup ready for harvest in 70. The dried beans are a glossy jet black which turn purplish when cooked, and are described in many seed catalogues as the best tasting black bean with their nutty flavour and meaty texture.
The Black Valentine bean has a noteworthy employment history. In addition to gardens and kitchens, it been has been found as a test subject in scientific laboratories. It’s been used in studies of bean mosaic and black mottle viruses, and the effects of smog on photosynthesis. Most notably, young Black Valentine seedlings were used in 1960s Primary Defoliation Screening experiments testing the efficacy of potential US Military tactical herbicides such as Agent Orange and 2, 4-D.
In honour of Valentine’s day this month, you may want to try baking up a batch of Chocolate Black Valentine cupcakes, or warm your kitchen with a more savoury recipe on a cold winter’s day. (Other black beans can of course be substituted!)
The variety has been partially adopted into our Canadian Seed Library but, like many others is awaiting further donations to be fully adopted. It can also be purchased from one of many companies as listed in our Canadian Seed Catalogue Inventory.