The Bean Pole Liana Yard Long, 'Phaseolus sesquipedalis', has a unique bean/pea flavor of "dow ghok" that is a favorite of the orient. "Good to eat as they are strange to behold". Liana Yard Long is not really a true bean. Asparagus or Yard Long are grown just like a pole bean, which remind some of asparagus. This plant is easy to grow and almost indestructible. When young, leaves and stems can also be steamed. Yard Long beans are of the sub-tropical origin, but Liana was specifically developed for gardens in North America. The beans are best harvested 12 to 18 inches long, even though they will get 24 inches long.
Liana is a pole type plant with vines 6 to 8 feet long. Beautiful purple flowers open in the morning and produce a pair of beans. Plant after the last average frost date. Yard Longs prefer rich, organic, and well drained soil. Asparagus beans should be planted to grow up a trellis, fence, netting, or a teepee.