Fact file: runner beans
Discover some fascinating facts about easy-to-grow runner beans.
Easy to grow and hard to find in the shops, runner beans (Phaseolus coccineus) climb rapidly up any type of support, making great use of space and making them especially useful for small gardens.
Runner beans produce a prolific crop of tasty pods right through summer.
Find out everything you need to know about runner beans in our Grow Guide.
To support climbing French beans, try creating a wigwam - watch our video guide to creating a wigwam for climbing beans.
Discover interesting facts, growing advice and more, in this runner beans fact file.
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Did you know...
When introduced from America in the 17th century, runner beans were grown purely as ornamentals. While most varieties are climbers, there are some dwarf bush forms, such as 'Hestia'.
Nutrition
Runner beans are rich in vitamins A, B, C and folic acid. They're also a good source of fibre.
Harvest
These beans live up to their speedy name, as the pods mature quickly. Harvest every few days, while still young and tender. Don't let the pods get big, as they turn stringy and production slows down.
Store
Although best eaten fresh, beans keep well for several days in the fridge. Freeze sliced and washed beans, spread out on trays until frozen, then bag up. Find out more about preserving harvests.
How to grow
Sow seeds in deep pots and harden off before planting out in early summer. Or sow direct in spring. Beans are hungry and thirsty plants so add plenty of manure or garden compost when planting and keep well watered. Provide supports at least 180cm high. Read more in our runner bean Grow Guide.
Our choices
'Moonlight' has white flowers, while 'St George' has red and white flowers and 'Celebration' salmon-rose. The self-fertile variety, 'Red Rum' is an early cropper and is tolerant of poor weather.
