Phaseolus coccineus seed

Phaseolus coccineus, known as runner bean, scarlet runner bean, or multiflora bean

This bean used by native Americans is stunning for the ornamental and nutritional value. It is a vigorous vine that will grow very tall over 10′ and produces an abundance of scarlet red flowers that hummingbirds love to visit. Lush green foliage is often grown on a tee-pee shaped trellis to make a fun place for kids to play. The huge seeds are very colorful, violet-purple mottled in black.

Good for snap, shell or dry beans. The flowers offer a mild and sweet flavor. Use them to garnish or in salads, soups, and desserts. These beans like fairly cool weather. It is a perennial vine with tuberous roots (though it is usually treated as an annual).