Jiangnan Green Beans

Jiangnan Green Beans

　　Green beans are another name for snap beans, an annual herbaceous plant that thrives in warm, sunny conditions, is drought-tolerant, and suitable for cultivation in deep, loose, fertile, well-drained soil. They are the main variety of the Phaseolus vulgaris species in the legume family.

　　Green beans are rich in protein and various amino acids. With a sweet, mild, and slightly warm nature, they enter the spleen and stomach meridians. They eliminate dampness without being overly drying, strengthen the spleen without causing stagnation, and are commonly used for spleen deficiency with damp accumulation. They help harmonize internal organs, calm the spirit, benefit qi and strengthen the spleen, relieve summer heat and eliminate dampness, as well as promote urination and reduce swelling. The tender pods can be eaten as vegetables and can also be dehydrated or canned.

　　The Jiangnan District lies within the subtropical monsoon climate zone, with an average annual temperature of 21.6°C and an average annual rainfall of 1,313.1 mm. It enjoys over 355 frost-free days per year, offering superior natural conditions and ecological environment that are highly suitable for green bean cultivation. The district has a perennial planting area of approximately 15,000 mu, mainly distributed in villages such as Anping, Nalang, and Tongliang in Jiangxi Town. The peak harvest seasons are from April to May and October to December, yielding a total production of 18,500 tons. The produce is mainly exported to regions such as Hunan, Hubei, Henan, Tianjin, and Beijing.