BEAN - SCARLET EMPEROR

 Organic Runner Bean Scarlet Emperor

        10 Seeds Pack   

Scarlet runner shelling beans, botanically classified as part of Phaseolus coccineus, are an open-pollinated runner bean and member of the Fabaceae family. Unlike common beans, the plant is a perennial vine with tuberous roots 

Scarlet runner beans are native to Mexico and the mountains of Central America. From there they travelled to Spain then throughout Europe and farther. When Scarlet runner beans first appeared in English gardens in the 1600s they were predominately grown as an ornamental whose blooms were known to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Their popularity as an edible bean grew in the British Isles in the mid-1900’s so much so that they are listed as, “by far the most popular green bean in Britain”. 

The Scarlet runner shelling bean plant produces large, stringless pods that are slightly curved into a classic bean shape. Pods are thick skinned, slightly fuzzy, and vibrant green. The pods house striking, large, kidney-shaped seeds or beans. The seeds are known for their vibrant colours and depending upon type will be varying shades of pink, purple, and lavender, often with spots and speckles of contrasting colour. The beans require a longer cooking time than typical shelling beans due to their size, and the skins are substantially heartier. The blooms of the Scarlet runner bean are large, clustered, and most often scarlet red though some types may be white, pink or multi-coloured. In addition to the seeds of the bean pods the flowers are also edible and offer a mild, bean flavour 

PLANTING & GROWING

Soak runner bean seeds for several hours, or ideally overnight, before planting. To prevent damping-off when starting seeds indoors, disinfect all plastic grow trays, seed cells, and covers before reuse.

Runner beans can grow on trellises, netting, or canes spaced 100cm (3ft) apart. They also thrive in pots at least 45cm (18in) in diameter, with plenty of drainage holes. Use a soil mix of equal parts loam-based and loam-free compost. Seeds germinate best at 18–25°C and prefer a soil pH of 6.0–6.8. Rotate bean crops every three years to avoid soil depletion, and ensure the soil contains phosphorus and potassium, as beans fix their own nitrogen.

Sow seeds 5–7.5cm (2–3in) deep and space them 15–23cm (6–9in) apart. In open ground, single rows should be 45cm (18in) apart, or double rows 23cm (9in) apart with 60cm (2ft) between. In raised beds, rows can be spaced 23cm (9in) apart. Water plants regularly, especially as pods begin to swell, and remove yellowing leaves as needed.

Harvest beans early and often. Small pods around 10cm long are tender and can be steamed whole, but most are picked at 15–20cm. Avoid letting beans grow so large that the seeds are visible inside, as they become tough. Runner bean flowers are also edible and add vibrant color to salads.

Runner beans are self-pollinating but attract bees and other insects. They grow rapidly in full sun after the danger of frost has passed. Be mindful of uncooked beans, which can be toxic to people and animals. Harvest pods by hand or with scissors, and dry end-of-season beans for winter use.

Consider companion planting runner beans with strawberries, radishes, or celery to maximize garden space and yield.