Phaseolus vulgaris 'Mascotte' – Compact bush bean of top quality

The Phaseolus vulgaris Mascotte is a unique bean variety that stands out for its compact growth, abundant yield, and sublime flavor. This dark green bush bean grows to only 40–45 cm tall, making it ideal for small gardens, balconies, patios, and cultivation in pots or containers. Mascotte also bears decorative white flowers that add real ornamental value even before the first harvest. Thanks to its excellent culinary qualities and reliable growth, Mascotte has been awarded the prestigious AAS (All-America Selections) medal.

This variety was developed for gardeners who expect high quality, even in limited space. With its combination of flavor, shape, and robust health, Mascotte is one of the best compact bean varieties for both beginners and experienced gardeners.

Powerful compact growth and easy harvest

Unlike most bush beans, Mascotte grows low and sturdy, without support or stakes. The plant produces straight, dark green pods 12–14 cm long, which hang gracefully above the foliage. This makes picking easy and prevents damage to the plant or fruit.

Its compact growth also ensures optimal use of pots and raised beds. This makes this bean variety an excellent choice for:

• Balcony and city gardens

• Patio boxes and pots

• Raised borders or small vegetable garden areas

• Gardeners with little space but high yield requirements

Mascotte also does well as an edging plant in a larger vegetable garden or as a compact bean variety between other crops.

Award-winning taste and high quality

Mascotte stands out for its full and mild flavor. The dark green beans retain a fine, stringless texture after cooking and remain flavorful and tender even when harvested later. The pods can be boiled, steamed, stir-fried, or used in fresh salads and warm vegetable dishes.

An additional advantage is that the beans are not only delicious when fresh, but are also excellent for freezing after a brief blanching.

Strong disease resistance – for healthy growth and high yields

The plant is resistant to various bean diseases, including grease spot and bean mosaic virus, reducing the risk of disease attack. This allows Mascotte to remain vigorous and productive in a variety of conditions, even during changeable summers.

A healthy plant automatically means a longer harvest period. Regular picking keeps Mascotte producing new pods well into the fall.

Sowing and cultivation – pot-suitable and easy to care for

For those who want to start early, sowing indoors from mid-April can be advantageous. This also helps prevent bean moth infestation. Sowing outdoors is possible from May to July, directly in the final location.

Sowing distances

• Row cropping: 8–10 cm in the row, 40 cm between rows

• Clump sowing: 40 x 30 cm, 4–5 seeds per spot

Like other beans, Mascotte requires little fertilizer, thanks to nitrogen-fixing root bacteria. Waterlogging should be avoided to prevent root rot. A well-drained soil and subsequent earthing up promote stability and yield.

Harvest season and kitchen inspiration

Harvest runs from July to October, with the best flavor coming from beans between 12 and 14 cm. Pick regularly to encourage the plant to produce new pods.

Culinary options:

• Lightly blanched as a salad bean

• Baked with garlic and basil

• In stews or pastas

• Perfect for freezing as a winter supply