Description
Scarlet runner beans, while beautiful and oftentimes used for ornamental purposes, are also edible and can be substituted for lima beans in many recipes.
Scarlet runner bean plants do not do well in colder temperatures so seeds should be planted well after the last frost. The plants grow rather rapidly, reaching maturity in 70 - 115 days, and can reach heights (vining) of up to 8 feet tall, in a single season. They do best planted near a fence or trellis so the vines can climb.
As the name suggests, the scarlet flower clusters are a stunning feature against the full green, heart-shaped leaves with slender pods that can reach lengths of up to 12 inches - these plants definitely make for a gorgeous backdrop for any garden. These bright and beautiful plants tend to be a huge draw for hummingbirds. Pods can be picked for a continuous bloom. The beans are pink in color when young and turn to a mottled purple and black when more mature.
Young pods can be used like snap beans or, if allowed to mature further, the beans can be shelled and cooked or dried if desired. The flowers are also tasty, being a great addition to any salad.
As with many other beans, scarlet runner beans are susceptible to insects, particularly beetles, and being nibbled on by rabbit and deer. Fungus may also be problematic in more humid conditions, especially if crowded.