About
It is a green-leaved twining climber reaching 3m with scarlet flowers (occasionally white) which develop into long, flat edible pods. This is the species from which all our runner beans have been bred. In the UK it is grown as a summer annual, lasting only one year.
About the genus
Phaseolus are annual or perennial legumes, usually climbing or trailing in form, and with trifoliate leaves. Grown as crop plants for their edible seeds, including runner, French and lima beans, as well as for animal feed, green manures and as ornamentals
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub, Fruit Edible
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
ToxicityRaw pods/beans harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs): Raw pods/beans harmful if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow up support in moisture-retentive soil which is close to a neutral pH, in full sun. For more advice see runner-bean cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails, and to blackfly (black aphid)
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to runner and french bean rust