Lima bean Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Lima beans

Scientific classification
Synonyms
Dolichos tonkinensis Bui-Quang-Chieu Phaseolus bipunctatus Jacq. Phaseolus ilocanus Blanco Phaseolus inamoenus L. Phaseolus limensis Macfad. Phaseolus lunatus var. macrocarpus (Moench) Benth. Phaseolus macrocarpus Moench Phaseolus portoricensis Spreng. Phaseolus puberulus Kunth Phaseolus rosei Piper Phaseolus saccharatus Macfad. Phaseolus tunkinensis Lour. Phaseolus vexillatus Blanco, nom, illeg, non L. Phaseolus viridis Piper Phaseolus xuaresii Zuccagni

Lima beans shown in a seed catalogue from 1894.

The lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus) is a type of legume grown for its tasty seeds. You might also know it as the butter bean, sieva bean, double bean, or Madagascar bean. These beans are a popular food around the world!

What are Lima Beans?
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What are Lima Beans?

Lima beans are edible seeds that grow inside pods. They belong to the same plant family as peas and peanuts. These beans are usually flat and oval-shaped. They come in different colors like green, white, cream, or even speckled.

Why are they called "Butter Beans"?

Many people call lima beans "butter beans." This name comes from their creamy texture when cooked. They often have a mild, buttery flavor. This makes them a favorite ingredient in many dishes.

Where Do Lima Beans Come From?

Lima beans originally came from the Americas. They have been grown there for thousands of years. Evidence shows they were cultivated in Peru around 6,000 BC. That's a very long time ago! The name "lima" comes from Lima, the capital city of Peru.

Growing Lima Beans

Lima beans grow on vines or bushy plants. They need warm weather to grow well. The plants produce pods that contain the beans. Farmers harvest the pods when the beans inside are plump and ready.

There are two main types of lima beans:

Bush limas: These grow on smaller, bushier plants. They are easier to grow in home gardens.
Pole limas: These grow on tall vines. They need support like poles or trellises to climb.

Different Kinds of Lima Beans

There are many varieties of lima beans. Some popular ones include:

Henderson Bush: A small, pale green bean.
Fordhook: A larger, thicker bean.
Christmas Lima: A beautiful speckled bean. It has a chestnut-like flavor.

Cooking with Lima Beans

Lima beans are a healthy food. They are full of protein, fiber, and vitamins. You can use them in many recipes. They are often added to soups, stews, and casseroles. Some people enjoy them simply boiled or steamed. In the southern United States, butter beans are a classic side dish. They are a key ingredient in some traditional dishes like succotash.