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This is an attractive variety with mottled red pods and large tasty beans. It is used extensively in Italian dishes, like minestrone, as either a dried bean or as a freshly picked pod. French beans grow well in a sunny, sheltered spot in well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter added. Always keep your bean plants weed free and well watered, especially during dry spells. Sow the seeds from mid March under cloches, or from late April in rows 60cm (2ft) apart.