Having burst out of its seed sheath and pushed up through the surface of the soil, this bean starts its long and arduous journey to maturity – to grow tall and produce flowers that turn to pods bearing seeds.

I am happy to say that (though not as robust as the magic beans of Jack and the Beanstalk fame) this seedling succeeded in its quest and grew to over three metres in height, producing abundant leaves, delicate yellow flowers and eventually robust pods concealing wondrous creamy seeds marvellously patterned in deep maroon.

Dried Christmas Beans

Known as the Christmas bean, this lima bean plant survived the winter, and is now into its second spring, healthy and strong and producing a new flush of flowers. Some of its seeds have been planted alongside it – a new generation. Mission accomplished! ★

Posted by Carol letting nature back in.    

https://dailypost.wordpress.com/photo-challenges/quest/