Description
The Early Marvel of Venice climbing (Pole) French Bean (also known as Meraviglia di Venezia) is a stunning Italian heirloom variety that brings a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to UK vegetable plots. It is widely considered one of the best-tasting yellow beans available, prized for its buttery texture and complete lack of “stringiness.”
Early Marvel of Venice Yellow Pole Bean
| Feature | Details |
| Type | Phaseolus vulgaris (Climbing/Pole Bean) |
| Pod Size | Broad, flat, and long (up to 20cm – 25cm) |
| Colour | Brilliant buttery yellow with white seeds |
| Flavour Profile | Rich, sweet, and nutty with a “melt-in-the-mouth” texture |
| Growth Habit | Vigorous climber (reaches 2m – 2.5m) |
| Best For | Steaming, sautéing in garlic butter, or eating fresh in salads |
Description
This is not your average “runner bean.” While it climbs just as vigorously, the pods are smooth, flat, and wide—resembling a yellow version of a Romano or Flat bean, it is, in fact, a climbing French Bean. The name “Early” is well-deserved as it tends to produce pods much sooner than other climbing varieties, which is a massive advantage in the UK where the growing season can be cut short by autumn frosts. The contrast between the bright yellow pods and the lush green foliage makes it as ornamental as it is edible.
UK Growing Tips
Because these are climbing beans, they are excellent for small gardens or raised beds where vertical space is easier to find than ground space.
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Wait for the Warmth: Like most beans, they are very frost-sensitive. Do not plant outdoors until late May or early June.
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Vertical Infrastructure: These vines are heavy and fast. Build a sturdy “A-frame” or “wigwam” using 2.4m (8ft) bamboo canes. Secure them well, as a UK gale can easily topple a bean frame once it’s covered in heavy foliage.
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Black Fly Watch: Broad beans get most of the attention for aphids, but climbing beans can be targets too. Plant Summer Savory or Marigolds nearby to deter them, or simply blast them off with a garden hose.
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Thirsty Climbers: In a raised bed, beans can dry out quickly. Mulch the base of the plants with straw or grass clippings to retain moisture. If they get too dry, the flowers may drop off before they set pods.
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The “Roots-In” Trick: When the season ends, cut the stems at the base but leave the roots in the soil. They are rich in nitrogen and will naturally fertilize your bed for next year’s crop.
Usage & Culinary Notes
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Harvest Frequently: To keep the buttery texture, harvest when the pods are around 15cm–20cm long. If you pick them regularly, the plant will keep producing new flowers until the first frost.
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The Italian Classic: Sauté the whole pods in olive oil with garlic, salt, and a squeeze of lemon. Their flat shape is perfect for holding onto sauces.
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No-String Guarantee: Unlike older bean varieties, these do not develop the “string” down the side, meaning very little prep work is needed—just top and tail them.
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Freezing: If you have a glut, these blanch and freeze exceptionally well, retaining their vibrant yellow color much better than green beans do.
