Phaseolus — 18 species

Phaseolus encompasses the true beans — including common beans, Pole beans, Lima beans, and Kentucky Wonder Pole Bean — grown worldwide as warm-season annuals for their edible pods and seeds. They require full sun and fertile, consistently moist but well-drained soil, with regular watering during flowering and pod set. Toxicity varies across the genus: raw or undercooked common beans contain lectins harmful to people and pets, while some species pose lower risk. Always check each species before introducing Phaseolus plants to homes with cats or dogs.