Black Turtle Beans

Grow the classic Latin American soup bean with Black Turtle – a small, glossy black bean variety that offers rich, earthy flavor and creamy texture perfect for black bean soup, refried beans, Cuban cuisine, and traditional Latin American dishes. These productive beans are packed with protein, fiber, and nutrition, making them ideal for healthy, plant-based cooking.

Growing Information

• Days to maturity: 85-100 days for dry beans
• Planting: Direct sow after last frost when soil temperature reaches 60°F; plant seeds 1-1.5 inches deep, 4-6 inches apart
• Spacing: Rows 18-24 inches apart
• Sun: Full sun (6-8 hours daily)
• Zones: 3-10 (warm-season annual)

Harvest & Use

Allow pods to dry completely on the plant until they turn brown and brittle – beans should be hard, small, and glossy black. Pull entire plants and hang in a well-ventilated area to finish drying. Shell beans by hand or thresh in batches. Perfect for black bean soup, refried beans, rice and beans, Cuban black beans, salads, and burritos. The rich, earthy flavor and creamy texture make these essential for Latin American cooking. Dried beans store for years in airtight containers.

Care Tips

Black Turtle beans thrive in warm, well-drained soil with moderate fertility. Water regularly during flowering and early pod development, then reduce watering as pods mature to encourage proper drying. Plants grow 18-24 inches tall and don't require support. Avoid over-fertilizing, which promotes foliage over bean production. Companion plant with corn, squash, or cucumbers for traditional Three Sisters garden benefits.

Why Choose Black Turtle

This reliable variety offers exceptional nutrition (high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants), rich flavor, and versatile culinary uses essential for Latin American and Caribbean cooking. The small size and creamy texture make these perfect for soups and refried beans. Whether you're making traditional Cuban black beans or building a self-sufficient pantry, Black Turtle delivers superior quality and authentic flavor.