Scarlet runner bean
Family Leguminosae: Papilionaceae (or Fabaceae)
Phaseolus coccineus (= Phaseolus multiflorus), the scarlet runner bean (P. coccineus 1), is a vigorous climber with tuberous roots, compound trifoliate leaves and bright scarlet flowers on long axillary peduncles (P. coccineus 4). The pods are up to 30 cm long, containing 6-10 seeds.
Distribution
The plant is a native of South America and was introduced into Europe in 1683 for the attractive flowers.
Use
The fibrous pods (P. coccineus 2) were not considered edible and did not become a food plant until the 18th century. Today scarlet runner beans are used for their immature green pods which are sliced and cooked as a vegetable, and for the dry seeds (P. coccineus 3).