Beans

Beans are small seeds that grow inside long pods on a plant. They come in many colors, sizes, and shapes. Some common beans are black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, and green beans. Beans have been grown by people for thousands of years. They are a big source of protein in many meals around the world.

How Beans Grow

Bean plants grow from seeds planted in the soil. Some beans grow on short bushy plants, and others climb up long poles. The plants have pretty flowers that turn into pods. Inside each pod are several beans lined up in a row. Farmers pick the pods when the beans inside are ready.

A Healthy Food

Beans are sometimes called the poor person's meat because they have so much protein. They also have fiber, iron, and lots of vitamins. You can eat beans in soups, salads, stews, and burritos. Some beans are dried and stored for a long time. Baked beans and refried beans are popular bean dishes.

Fun Facts

• Beans can help the soil by adding nitrogen, which is a plant food.
• Jelly beans are candy shaped like real beans, but they are made of sugar.
• The giant from Jack and the Beanstalk grew up from a magic bean.

Did You Know?

Beans belong to a group of plants called legumes. Peanuts and peas are also legumes, even though peanuts are called nuts.