Annuals

Phaseolus vulgaris 'Roma II'

Roma II Bush Bean

UnknownCentral America

At a Glance

Typeannual
Habitupright bush
Foliagedeciduous
Height18-24 inches
Width12-18 inches

Overview

Phaseolus vulgaris 'Roma II' is a compact bush bean cultivar renowned for producing heavy yields of high-quality Romano-type flat pods. This determinate variety forms a sturdy, upright plant that typically reaches 18-24 inches in height with a bushy, self-supporting growth habit. The trifoliate leaves are medium green and heart-shaped, providing dense foliage coverage that helps protect the developing pods. The distinctive flat, wide pods of Phaseolus vulgaris 'Roma II' are what set this cultivar apart from standard round green beans. These Romano-style beans measure 5-6 inches long and display a characteristic broad, flattened appearance with a tender, stringless texture when harvested young. The pods maintain their quality longer than many bean varieties, making them excellent for both fresh eating and processing. Small white flowers appear in clusters along the stems before developing into the prized flat pods that this cultivar is known for.

Native Range

Phaseolus vulgaris is native to Central and South America, where wild forms can still be found growing in the mountainous regions of Mexico, Guatemala, and the Andes. Archaeological evidence suggests beans were first domesticated in these regions over 7,000 years ago before spreading throughout the Americas and eventually worldwide.

Suggested Uses

Phaseolus vulgaris 'Roma II' works well in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and container gardens due to its compact bush habit. The flat Romano-type pods are excellent for fresh eating, steaming, sautéing, and freezing. This variety is particularly valued for Italian cuisine and processing due to its superior pod quality and concentrated harvest period.

How to Identify

Phaseolus vulgaris 'Roma II' can be identified by its distinctive flat, wide Romano-type pods that measure 5-6 inches long and are notably broader than standard green beans. The plant forms a compact, determinate bush habit rather than a climbing vine, with sturdy stems that support themselves without trellising. The trifoliate leaves are medium green and heart-shaped, while the small white flowers develop into the characteristic flattened pods that remain tender and stringless when harvested at proper maturity.

Appearance

Bloom Information

mid-summer through early fall

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

white

Foliage Description

medium green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

full sun

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

50-60 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Phaseolus vulgaris 'Roma II' requires well-drained, fertile soil with consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Water regularly at the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering which can promote fungal diseases. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time, but avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of pod production. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Harvest pods regularly when young and tender to encourage continued production throughout the season.

Pruning

Phaseolus vulgaris 'Roma II' requires minimal pruning as a determinate bush variety. Remove any damaged or diseased foliage promptly to maintain plant health. Pinch off spent flowers if seed production is not desired, though this is generally unnecessary as the plant will naturally focus energy on pod development. Avoid heavy pruning of healthy foliage as leaves are essential for photosynthesis and pod development.

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Raw beans and leaves of Phaseolus vulgaris contain lectins and should not be consumed uncooked by humans or pets. Properly cooked beans are safe and nutritious for human consumption.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

both

Indoor Start

2 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

after last frost when soil temperature reaches 60°F

Days to Maturity

50–60 days

Plant Spacing

4 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

tomatoes
carrots
radishes
lettuce
marigolds
nasturtiums

Avoid Planting With

onions
garlic
fennel
sunflowers