Most popular variety for dry shell bean for winter use. An old heirloom field bean with 4-5 inch pods. A small pinto type with delicious flavor, much used for soups. These hard brown-speckled beans make for great chilies and refried beans. They are easy to grow and have a shelf life of five years. The pinto bean is most prominent in Mexican cuisine and is often used for refried beans. They can tolerate being dried out while growing, making them an easy bean to grow. With a shelf life of five years, pinto beans are a great option for those who enjoy edible gardening.