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Description
Phaseolus Coccineus, commonly known as Scarlet Runner Beans, is a flowering vine that belongs to the legume family. It is native to Central America, but it is now widely grown all over the world as an ornamental plant, food crop, and cover crop. Scarlet Runner Beans are valued for their beautiful flowers, edible pods, and high protein content. They are easy to grow and care for, making them an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eukarya | Plantae | Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Fabales | Leguminosae | Phaseolus |
Appearance
Scarlet Runner Beans are fast-growing vines that can reach up to 3 meters in height. They have heart-shaped leaves that are green in color and serrated at the edges. The flowers are large, bright red, and shaped like a butterfly. They bloom in midsummer and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The pods are long, flat, and green when young, but they turn purple and become tough as they mature. The seeds are kidney-shaped, gray, and speckled with black.
Care Guide
Water: Scarlet Runner Beans need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Add compost or organic fertilizer to the soil before planting. You can also use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Scarlet Runner Beans prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Sunlight: Scarlet Runner Beans need full sun to thrive. They can tolerate some shade, but they will produce fewer flowers and pods.
Hardiness Zones: Scarlet Runner Beans are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scarlet Runner Beans are generally free from pests and diseases, but they can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To control these pests, you can spray the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The beans can also be affected by root rot, powdery mildew, and bacterial blight. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and overcrowding the plants, and remove infected plant parts immediately.
Habitat
Scarlet Runner Beans are adaptable plants that can grow in various habitats, including gardens, fields, and forests. They prefer warm and moist climates, but they can also tolerate cooler temperatures. They are commonly grown in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for Scarlet Runner Beans to mature?
A: Scarlet Runner Beans usually take 60 to 90 days to mature from seed to harvest.
Q: Can Scarlet Runner Beans be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Scarlet Runner Beans can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 30 cm deep and wide.
Q: Are Scarlet Runner Beans annual or perennial plants?
A: Scarlet Runner Beans are usually grown as annual plants, but they can also be grown as perennials in warmer climates.
Q: Can Scarlet Runner Beans be eaten raw?
A: Yes, Scarlet Runner Beans can be eaten raw when they are young and tender. They can also be cooked and used in various dishes, such as soups, stews, and salads.
Related Plants
- Phaseolus vulgaris (Common Bean)
- Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea)
- Cicer arietinum (Chickpea)
- Glycine max (Soybean)
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/beans/growing-scarlet-runner-beans.htm
- https://www.gardeningchannel.com/how-to-grow-scarlet-runner-beans/
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18376/phaseolus-coccineus/details
- https://www.almanac.com/plant/scarlet-runner-beans
