Why are wax beans called wax beans?

Wax beans are likely to have derived their name from their bright-yellow coloration, similar to the color of beeswax. These beans have a satin texture and seem to have a wax coating. Wax beans are also popularly known as butter beans.

A member of the Fabaceae vegetable family, wax beans can refer to a number of yellowish-colored beans depending on the nature of the cultivated seed. Wax beans have similar nutritive properties to green beans and can be used as an alternative to green beans in recipes. They are popular with cooks for both nutritional and aesthetic purposes, and are said to taste great and also look great on the table.