The large clusters of beautiful scarlet flowers and rapid, vigorous, sprawling growth make Scarlet Emperor an ideal choice for screens, trellises, and balconies. The long pods are tender and tasty when picked small. If undisturbed, the roots may overwinter and re-grow the following spring in mild winter areas. Even if it doesn’t come back as a perennial, the seeds are large and easy to harvest and dry for future plantings. The seeds are black streaked with purple. Grow Scarlet Emperor runner beans up a tall, strong trellis, and it will reach 3m (10') or higher by mid-summer. The flowers are also edible, with a delicious mild bean taste and makes a perfect, colorful garnish.
Matures in 75 days
West Coast Seeds Scarlet Emperor Beans Seeds, Per Package
Starting
Seeds can be started indoors, or sowed directly. Set seeds 7-10cm (3-4″) apart and 3.5cm (1½”) deep at the base of a support. Plants will climb by twining around almost anything. Try rough poles, lumber, re-bar, or build a strong trellis 2-2.5m (6-8′) tall. Seeds will sprout in 8-16 days, depending on soil conditions.
Timing
Direct sow from late spring to early summer. Try to plant during a warm, dry spell. Soil must be warm – if it is not warm enough, seeds will rot, especially our untreated seeds. Optimal soil temperature: 21-32°C (70-90°F).
Harvest
Beans can be picked when plump-looking. You may dry beans to preserve them, or cook them soon after harvesting. You must ensure that you cook these beans thoroughly; raw runner beans contain lectin, a toxin that is removed by the cooking process.
