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Food

Scarlet Runner Beans

What is scarlet runner beans?

· Sarah Mitchell

Key facts

Scientific name Phaseolus coccineus[1]
Common name Runner bean[1]
Native range Tropical America; mountains of Mexico and Central America[3]
Flower color Red[1]
Plant form Climbing plant[1]
Edible parts Pods and seeds[2]

Scarlet runner beans are a climbing bean species, *Phaseolus coccineus*, with bright red flowers and edible pods and seeds, native to tropical America and often grown as an annual in temperate climates. [1] [3] [5]

Context

Scarlet runner beans (*Phaseolus coccineus*) are a climbing bean with bright red flowers, native to tropical America and the mountains of Mexico and Central America [1] [3]. They produce edible pods and seeds and are also grown as ornamentals [1] [5]. In temperate climates, they are grown as annuals, though they are naturally perennial [3] [5]. They are sometimes confused with lima beans, since 'butter bean' can refer to either plant [4]. These beans are a versatile crop for both gardens and kitchens.

Documented claims

  • Scarlet runner beans are grown as an ornamental plant as well as for food. [1]
  • In temperate climates, scarlet runner beans are treated as annuals, though they are naturally perennials. [3]
  • Scarlet runner beans are sometimes confused with lima beans, as 'butter bean' can refer to either. [4]

Related

  • Pinto BeansPinto beans are another common variety of edible beans, useful for comparison.
  • Red Kidney BeansRed kidney beans are a similar edible bean variety, useful for comparison.

Questions and answers

Can you eat the beans from scarlet runners?

Yes, both the pods and the seeds of scarlet runner beans are edible [1].

How long does it take for scarlet runner beans to grow?

Scarlet runner beans are often planted early in cool soils and grow as annuals in temperate climates, but specific growing times are not detailed in the sources [3].

Do scarlet runner beans taste good?

The sources describe them as edible food beans, but they do not provide taste descriptions [1].

Sources

  1. Scarlet runner bean — britannica.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  2. Scarlet Runner Bean | Under the Solano Sun — ucanr.edu (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  3. Plant scarlet runner beans first when soils are chilly — extension.oregonstate.edu (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  4. SCARLET RUNNER BEAN Definition & Meaning — merriam-webster.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  5. Scarlet Runner Shelling Beans Information and Facts — specialtyproduce.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)

Sources last checked August 3, 2026. · More in Food