Common bean (scientific name: Phaseolus vulgaris) is an annual herbaceous plant that is cultivated worldwide for its edible dry seeds and immature green pods. The tender pods or green beans are commonly referred to as "string beans," while the seeds are known as "kidney beans" or "navy beans." Other common names include "cloud beans," "pole beans," "hyacinth beans," "wax beans," "fava beans," and "sensitive beans." The common bean is native to the Americas and belongs to the legume family, being one of the three main beans of North America. It later spread to the Eurasian continent and has become a common vegetable on tables around the world.