Bean is an annual plant native to Central America. It is commonly cultivated in both Americas, Europe and Asia.
Cultivation of bean is dominated by two species: common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus).
Common bean includes among others the popular green bean, while runner bean features a rough, wide and flat pod. Runner bean seeds are large, kidney-shaped and most frequently white.
Both standard cultivars as well as cultivars of ‘Mammoth’ type should be served worldwide due to their nutritive values. They are low-calorie and contain plenty of minerals.
Bean is a valuable source of folic acid and fibre and contains vitamins C, E and A.
It is also a rich source of protein, which makes it a valuable component of vegetarian diet.