A vigorous, high-yielding pole bean with strong performance across diverse Canadian climates.
At a glance
- ⏱️ Days: ~88–119 (varies by region)
- 🌿 Growth habit: Pole (determinate climber
- 📈 Yield: Very high (0.41–0.62 kg/m recorded)
- 🌦️ Reliability: High
- 🍲 Use: Dry bean (chili, baking, stews)
Why it matters
Annie Jackson is a standout among heritage beans for its consistently high productivity across very different climates. Unlike many pole beans, it can mature within shorter growing seasons while still delivering strong yields.
Origin & history
Annie Jackson stands out as one of the most productive and adaptable heritage beans tested in the Crop–Climate project. It combines the high yield of a pole bean with the ability to mature reliably across a wide range of Canadian growing conditions including in regions with very short seasons.
Growing notes
- Vigorous climbing habit; requires sturdy, tall supports
- Benefits from good airflow and spacing
- Longer harvest window than bush beans
- Pods may require indoor drying in cooler climates
- Strong performance when well supported and watered
Performance snapshot
- Consistently high yielding across regions
- Matures within 90–120 days depending on climate
- One of few pole beans suited to shorter Canadian seasons
Observed Performance
Salmon Arm, BC (Zone 6b, Interior)
- Days: 88–119
- Yield: >0.34 kg/m
- Notes: Highest yielding variety in trial; matured within growing season; outperformed bush beans
- Source: Whitfield & Hebda tria
Saanich Peninsula, BC (Coastal)
- Days: 111–128
- Yield: 0.41–0.62 kg/m
- Notes: Exceptional productivity; among highest recorded yields in trials
- Source: Hebda Trial
Prince Edward Island (Zone 5b, Maritime)
- Days: ~95–100
- Notes: Early-maturing for a pole bean; suitable for short-season climates
- Source: Emmerdale Eden Farm
In the kitchen
A versatile dry bean with good texture and flavour:
- Excellent in chili and baked bean dishes
- Holds shape well in cooking
- Produces a rich, hearty result in slow-cooked meals
Recipes: Cincinnati-style chili (adapted with Annie Jackson beans)
