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Description
Phaseolus Acutifolius, commonly known as the Desert Runner Bean, is a hardy and heat-tolerant plant that belongs to the legume family. This plant is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States and has been cultivated for centuries by indigenous people for its edible seeds, pods, and leaves. The Desert Runner Bean is a perennial plant that can grow up to 8 feet tall and has a sprawling habit. It has an extensive root system that allows it to thrive in the hot and dry climates of the desert. The plant produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that develop into long, slender pods containing small, dark-brown seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Phaseolus |
Appearance
The Desert Runner Bean has a sprawling habit and can grow up to 8 feet tall. It has a deep root system that allows it to access water and nutrients from deep within the soil. The plant produces long, slender pods that contain small, dark-brown seeds. The leaves of the plant are triangular and have a pointed tip. They are light green in color, and their edges are serrated. The flowers of the Desert Runner Bean are small, white, and fragrant. They bloom in late spring or early summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
The Desert Runner Bean is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The Desert Runner Bean is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: The plant is a legume and can fix nitrogen in the soil. Therefore, it does not require additional fertilization.
- Soil: The Desert Runner Bean prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The Desert Runner Bean is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Desert Runner Bean is a hardy plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the leaves of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on the plant.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause the roots of the plant to rot.
Habitat
The Desert Runner Bean is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States and thrives in hot and dry climates. The plant grows in sandy, well-draining soil and is often found in desert regions. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate extreme temperatures and periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow the Desert Runner Bean in a container?
A: Yes, the Desert Runner Bean can be grown in a container. However, make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the extensive root system of the plant.
Q: Can I eat the leaves of the Desert Runner Bean?
A: Yes, the leaves of the Desert Runner Bean are edible and can be used in salads or cooked like spinach.
Q: How long does it take for the Desert Runner Bean to mature?
A: The Desert Runner Bean takes about 90 to 120 days to mature and produce pods.
Q: Is the Desert Runner Bean a perennial or an annual?
A: The Desert Runner Bean is a perennial plant that can live for several years.
Related Plants
- Phaseolus Vulgaris (Common Bean)
- Phaseolus Lunatus (Lima Bean)
- Phaseolus Coccineus (Scarlet Runner Bean)
References
- https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Phaseolus+acutifolius
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/runner-beans/grow-runner-beans.htm
- https://www.growveg.com/plants/us-and-canada/how-to-grow-runner-beans/
