Description
Calypso Bean (a.k.a. Orca, Orca Bean)
50 Seeds per pack
Days to Maturity: 70–90 Days
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Botanical Name: Phaseolus vulgaris
An old heirloom with origins in the Americas and Caribbean, the Calypso Bush Bean is also known as the “Orca” bean for its striking black-and-white pattern, reminiscent of its namesake whale. The small, round seeds are half black and half white, sometimes speckled, and keep their unique markings even after cooking. Known for their creamy, potato-like texture and mild, earthy flavor, Calypso beans double in size when cooked and shine in soups, stews, baked beans, and salads. Young pods can also be picked and enjoyed as tender green beans.
Compact bush-type plants reach about 15–20″ tall and produce, early yields of 4–5 beans per pod. Adaptable and hardy, Calypso performs well in a wide range of climates, tolerating dry spells and thriving in full sun with well-drained soil. Easy to grow and highly productive, it’s a favorite among home gardeners and a fun addition to children’s gardens due to its eye-catching seeds.
With its unique beauty, reliable performance, and versatile kitchen use, Calypso is a true standout among heirloom beans!
Planting Instructions for Calypso Bean Seeds
When to Plant
Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil temperature is at least 60°F, ideally 70–80°F. Calypso Beans are frost-sensitive and should not be planted in cold, wet soil. In cooler regions, use black plastic mulch or cloches to warm soil more quickly.
Where to Plant
Select a location with full sun and well-drained soil, ideally sandy loam. Avoid areas prone to standing water, which can cause root rot. A pH between 6.0–6.8 is ideal. Work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting for best results.
How to Plant
It is generally recommended not to soak seeds before planting, as this can promote rot in cool or wet soils. However, in warmer soils, a brief soak of 4–6 hours may speed germination without increasing the risk of rot. Sow directly 1″ deep, spacing seeds 2–4″ apart in rows 18–24″ apart. If starting indoors, plant 1–1.5″ deep in biodegradable pots to avoid root disturbance and harden off before transplanting.
Growing Notes
Compact bush-type plants reach 15–20″ tall, producing early yields of pods each containing 4–5 small, round beans with a distinct black-and-white pattern. Calypso Beans are hardy, adaptable, and tolerate dry spells, but consistent moisture will improve yield and seed quality. Keep soil evenly moist during flowering and pod development, and mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Succession Planting
Generally grown for dry or shelly beans with one main harvest. Stagger planting only if a prolonged fresh harvest is desired, keeping in mind that cooler weather at season’s end can slow maturity.
Pests and Problems
Watch for aphids, Mexican bean beetles, spider mites, and fungal diseases like rust or anthracnose. Rotate crops every 3 years, avoid planting near onions or garlic, and avoid handling plants when wet to prevent disease spread.
Harvesting
For shelly beans, pick when seeds are plump but not dry. For dry beans, harvest at 70–90 days when pods are brittle and beans rattle inside.
- Option 1: Pull whole plants to dry in a ventilated space for 1–2 weeks.
- Option 2: In humid areas, pick pods as they dry and finish indoors on screens or in mesh bags.
Shell by hand or by gently stomping in a sack. Remove chaff before storage.
Storage
Store dried beans in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. For long-term storage (5–10 years), use mylar bags or #10 cans with oxygen absorbers. Freeze beans for 48 hours before storage to kill any insect eggs.
Cooking Tips
Known for a creamy, potato-like texture and mild, earthy flavor. Excellent in soups, stews, salads, and baked dishes. Soak overnight, drain, boil 10 minutes, then simmer until tender. Calypso beans hold their shape well in slow-cooked recipes.
Seed Saving
Select mature, healthy pods from disease-free plants. Shell and dry completely before storing in seed-saving envelopes or airtight containers in a cool, dry place. For extended viability, store in a freezer-safe container in the freezer. Seeds remain viable for 3–5 years under ideal conditions.
FAQ:
What are Calypso Beans and why are they also called Orca beans?
Calypso Beans are an heirloom bush bean variety with a distinctive black-and-white pattern resembling an orca whale. They are known for their creamy, potato-like texture and mild, earthy flavor, making them a standout in the kitchen and garden.
How long do Calypso Beans take to mature?
Calypso Beans typically mature in 70–90 days when grown as a dry bean. They can also be harvested earlier as shelly beans when seeds are plump but not yet dry.
When is the best time to plant Calypso Beans?
Plant Calypso Beans outdoors after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F, ideally between 70–80°F. In cooler areas, black plastic mulch or cloches can help warm the soil for faster germination.
Should I soak Calypso Bean seeds before planting?
It’s usually best not to soak bean seeds in cool or wet soils to prevent rot. However, in warm soil, a short 4–6 hour soak may speed up germination without increasing disease risk.
How tall do Calypso Bean plants grow and how should I space them?
Calypso Bean plants are compact bush types reaching about 15–20″ tall. Plant seeds 1″ deep, spaced 2–4″ apart, with rows 18–24″ apart for best growth and yield.
Are Calypso Beans good for fresh eating as green beans?
Yes. While often grown as a dry bean, young Calypso Bean pods can be picked early and enjoyed as tender green beans for a fresh harvest.
How do I harvest and store Calypso Beans?
For dry beans, harvest when pods are brittle and beans rattle inside. Pull plants to dry in a ventilated space or pick pods as they dry and finish indoors. Store in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. For long-term storage, use mylar bags or #10 cans with oxygen absorbers. (Do not use oxygen absorbers if saving the seeds for planting!)
What pests or diseases affect Calypso Beans?
Common pests include aphids, Mexican bean beetles, and spider mites. Diseases like rust or anthracnose can occur, so practice crop rotation, avoid planting near onions or garlic, and don’t handle plants when wet, to keep you crop healthy and productive.
How do I cook dried Calypso Beans?
Soak dried beans overnight, drain, boil for 10 minutes, then simmer until tender. They hold their shape well in soups, stews, salads, baked beans, and other slow-cooked dishes.
Morgan W. (verified owner) –
I was exceptionally happy with both of my orders from St Clare seeds. The shipping was fast, the seeds are very high quality, and my garden is growing amazingly well and already producing a harvest. 10/10 recommend them for all of your seeds. I can’t wait to plant more seeds, and try some new varieties.