Rio Zape Semi-Runner Bean Seeds

Heirloom bean, semi-runner type growth. Pretty dusty rose coloured beans with chocolate brown swirling, intended for use as a dry bean. It has been reported by some sources that the bean was found in 1935 in an Anasazi cliff dwelling during an archaeological dig in New Mexico. In the 1960’s these same beans were found during the excavation of a tomb in Rio Zape, Mexico. Seems hard to imagine, but there was a belief that the beans there had been sealed inside the tomb around 600 A.D. Myth? Either way, this is the bean that inspired the creation of the Rancho Gordo bean company. I guess they were good! Very productive bean variety. Historically it was recorded by Von Martens as ‘Amathyst-farbige Zebrabohne’ which translates to ‘Amethyst Bean’. In Spain it’s known as ‘Judias de Largato’. The description at Rancho Gordo reads: “A rich, dense pinto-like bean with hints of coffee and chocolate”. Uncommon in Canada.  2021 seed.  Gratefully received from the wonderful collection of Russ Crow, Woodstock, Illinois.