Scarlet runner bean
phaseolus coccineus
Also known as: ["Runner bean","Painted lady bean","Fire bean"]
Overview
A vigorous, climbing vine with bright red flowers and edible beans, native to the mountains of Central America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Phaseolus |
| Botanical Name: | Phaseolus coccineus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: trellis or support structure in garden or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, but typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may reduce flowering.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun indoors.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base, avoid wetting foliage, and ensure proper drainage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with added compost
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is loose and crumbly; avoid compacted soil; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids frost.
Avoid drafts, maintain consistent temps, protect from sudden changes.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength, apply to moist soil, and avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Seeds or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium, plant seeds/cuttings, water lightly, maintain humidity, provide warmth, monitor growth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional for stem cuttings, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Seeds: 7–14 days to germinate; cuttings: 2–4 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, humidity dome, heat mat.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; mist cuttings regularly; ensure bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, trim leggy stems, remove yellow or dead leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased growth, shape the plant, and encourage bushier growth or better flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/diseased parts, shape growth, clean up debris, monitor recovery.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose new pot, prepare soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring the root zone is moist but not waterlogged; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost, perlite, or sand to improve drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, use a heat mat, or cover outdoors to protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may cease in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, or move to a cooler location.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply to soil, avoid foliage, follow seasonal schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to the lectins and other compounds in raw or undercooked scarlet runner beans, which can lead to gastrointestinal irritation. Proper cooking mitigates these effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten raw or undercooked
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience gastrointestinal upset if they consume raw or undercooked scarlet runner beans due to the presence of lectins and other indigestible compounds. Cooking neutralizes these substances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten raw or undercooked
Humans
Slightly ToxicPhaseolus coccineus, commonly known as scarlet runner bean, contains lectins and other compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if consumed in raw or undercooked form. Proper cooking denatures these compounds, rendering the plant safe for consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten raw or undercooked
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the beans of the Scarlet runner bean edible?
A: Yes, the beans are edible when properly cooked, but raw beans contain toxins.
Q: Does the Scarlet runner bean attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How should I care for a Scarlet runner bean?
A: Provide full sun, well-drained soil, and support for climbing; water regularly during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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