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bean (runner) 'Scarlet Emperor'

runner bean or Phaseolus coccineus 'Scarlet Emperor'

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Reliable and well-loved, this climbing cultivated variety delivers heavy crops of long, straight green pods with a traditional runner bean flavour. It’s a fast grower, reaching up to 3m (9ft) tall, so needs sturdy support such as canes or a wigwam.

Bright red flowers appear in early summer and are also edible, making a colourful addition to salads. Pods form soon after and are best harvested young before they get tough.

Runner bean 'Scarlet Emperor' is a heritage favourite that continues to perform well in UK gardens, producing large yields over a long period. It’s ideal for freezing, and a great choice for anyone wanting a productive, tall-growing bean with excellent flavour.

How to care for bean (runner) Scarlet Emperor:

Choose a sunny, sheltered spot and enrich the soil with well-rotted compost before planting. Support with sturdy hazel bean poles or bamboo canes.

Keep plants well watered, especially in dry spells, and protect seedlings from slugs. Check for blackfly early and hose off any clusters on shoot tips. Pick beans regularly once pods are finger-length to encourage further cropping and to enjoy them at their most tender.

Sowing instructions:

Sow runner bean seeds from late spring, once the risk of frost has passed. Place seeds 5cm (2in) deep and about 20cm (8in) apart in well-prepared soil or in a large container filled with loam-based (John Innes) compost. Sow a couple of extra seeds at the end of the row or in separate pots to replace any that don’t germinate or get damaged by pests.
Eventual height:
1.8m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:

Full sun

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

  • InformationHumans/Pets: Raw pods/beans harmful if eaten

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SD30000430
approx 45 seeds
£3.29
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
1
Delivery options (pick your preferred option at checkout)
Seed Packets (only)£2.99
Named Day Delivery£10.99

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