Scarlet runner bean Phaseolus coccineus 'Celebration'

Names

• Family

  Fabaceae

• Synonyms

  Scarlet Runner Bean, Runner Bean, Multiflora Bean, Dutch Case Knife Bean

• Common names

  Phaseolus multiflorus, Phaseolus speciosus.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Phaseolus coccineus, commonly known as runner bean, is not typically toxic when consumed by humans in its mature, cooked form. Like many beans, the raw seeds can contain lectins, which can be harmful if ingested in large quantities. The main symptoms of poisoning from consuming raw or improperly cooked beans may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, can lead to more serious health complications if left untreated. Always ensure that runner beans are thoroughly cooked before consumption to neutralize these lectins.

• To pets

  The toxicity of runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus) to common household pets like dogs and cats is generally low when the beans are cooked. Similar to humans, the raw seeds contain lectins, which can cause digestive upset if ingested in significant amounts. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. To avoid any potential issues, it is best to ensure that any beans given to pets are well-cooked and to only feed them such human foods in moderation.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Red

• Height

  8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters)

• Spread

  4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)

• Plant type

  Climber

• Hardiness zones

  7

• Native area

  Central America

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Phaseolus coccineus 'Celebration', commonly known as the runner bean, adds vibrant scarlet flowers to gardens, enhancing visual interest.
• Edible Pods: The plant produces edible pods that can be consumed raw or cooked, offering a source of nutrients for diets.
• Nitrogen Fixation: As a legume, runner beans contribute to soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, beneficial for future plants grown in the same soil.
• Vertical Gardening: This climber is ideal for vertical gardening, which can save space and make harvesting easier.
• Wildlife Attraction: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
• Culinary Versatility: The beans are a versatile ingredient in many recipes, from salads to stews, allowing for a wide range of culinary uses.
• Fast Growing: Runner beans grow quickly, providing a short time from planting to harvest compared to many other vegetables.
• Easy to Grow: They are relatively easy to cultivate, making them suitable for novice gardeners or those with less gardening experience.
• Cultural Significance: Runner beans have been traditionally cultivated and valued in many cultures, and growing them can connect individuals to these cultural practices.
• Shade Provider: The dense foliage of runner beans can create shade in the garden, which can be beneficial for lower-growing, shade-loving plants.

Medical Properties

• This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• As a natural dye: The bright red flowers of the Scarlet Runner Bean can be used to produce a natural dye for textiles and crafts.
• As a support for other plants: The sturdy vines can be used as living trellises for other climbing plants that need support.
• In companion planting: Gardening enthusiasts sometimes plant Scarlet Runner Beans near crops to help attract pollinators or to provide shade for more heat-sensitive plants.
• As an educational tool: The large seeds are ideal for use in educational settings to teach children about plant germination and growth.
• For soil improvement: Being a legume, Scarlet Runner Beans can fix nitrogen into the soil, improving its fertility for future plantings.
• In culinary arts: The ornamental and vibrant flowers can be used as an edible decoration in gourmet dishes.
• As a biofuel: Though not common, the beans could potentially be used to create biofuel given their organic matter content.
• For crafts: Dried seed pods can be used in crafting, such as making rattles or other decorative objects.
• In landscaping: The plant's quick growth and lush foliage make it useful for creating summer green screens or temporary hedges.
• As a natural insecticide: Some gardeners use extracts from the leaves as a mild insect repellent for garden pests.

Feng Shui

The Scarlet Runner Bean is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Scarlet Runner Bean is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Productivity and Abundance: Phaseolus coccineus 'Celebration', commonly known as Scarlet Runner Bean, often symbolizes productivity due to its vigorous growth habit and bountiful harvest of beans.
• Relation and Connection: The plant's tendency to climb and intertwine with structures and other plants can represent the interconnectedness among people and their relationships.
• Passion and Energy: The vivid red flowers of the Scarlet Runner Bean are associated with passion and vibrant energy, echoing the color's traditional symbolism.
• Celebration of Life: Its name 'Celebration' and the plant's showy appearance contribute to its association with joy, festivities, and the celebration of life's events.