Phaseolus coccineus Runner bean (Leguminosae)

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Phaseolus coccineus
Runner bean
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The Phaseolus coccineus plant species is found in Southern N. America - Mexico. It is a member of the Leguminosae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Runner bean. Some home gardeners know the variety as P. multiflorus.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Phaseolus coccineus
Common Name:  Runner bean
Family:  Leguminosae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Large quantities of the raw mature seed are poisonous[10, 65]. The toxins play a role in protecting the plant from insect predation.

Mature Height:  3   Mature Width:  1

Habitat:  Not known

Cultivation Notes: Requires a warm sheltered sunny position in a rich well-drained soil with plenty of moisture in the growing season[1, 16, 37, 200]. Dislikes heavy, wet or acid soils[16]. Prefers a pH in the range 6 to 7[200]. The runner bean is commonly cultivated in many parts of the world for its edible seeds and immature seedpods, there are many named varieties[183]. Most varieties are climbing plants but some dwarf forms have been developed[200]. Plants are perennials but are often grown as annuals, especially in the temperate zone. Plants flower under long day conditions, which is ideal for temperate regions[200]. When grown for their edible pods, the immature pods should be harvested regularly in order to promote extra flower production and therefore higher yields[200]. The perennial roots will survive mild winters outdoors in many parts of the country, especially if given a protective mulch in late autumn, they will then give an earlier but lighter crop the following year. They can also be dug up in late autumn and stored like dahlias in a cool but frost free place over winter and replanted in the following spring. The plants might need some protection from slugs since these creatures adore the young shoots in the spring[K]. Runner beans grow well with carrots, cauliflowers, cucumbers, cabbage, leek and celariac[18, 20]. They are inhibited by alliums and fennel growing nearby[18, 20]. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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