Bean 'Scarlet Emperor'

Scarlet Emperor Runner Bean (Phaseolus coccineus)

A striking climbing bean that delivers both spectacular colour and delicious harvests. Scarlet Emperor produces long, twining vines adorned with dense clusters of vivid scarlet flowers—an irresistible magnet for hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators. Perfect for trellises, fences, arbors, balconies, or any vertical garden feature.

The tender, straight pods are excellent fresh for snacking or cooking when picked young, and can also be left to mature for shelling. This dual-purpose variety combines ornamental charm with edible rewards, making it a favourite for gardeners who love beauty and bounty in one plant.

Pairs beautifully with nasturtiums, sweet peas, or tall sunflowers to create a layered, pollinator-friendly garden display.

DETAILS:

QTY: 50

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: 1 1/4" at the base of the support

GERMINATION: 8-16 Days at 18-22°C 

MATURITY: 70 Days from direct seeding

SPACING: 2" apart in rows 20-36" apart 

PINCH: No

HOW TO GROW:
Direct Sow (recommended): Sow seeds directly outdoors from late spring to early summer, after all danger of frost has passed. Plant in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5–6.8 when daytime soil temperatures reach at least 18°C . Cooler soils may cause seeds to rot. Sow during a warm, dry spell if possible.

Transplanting (alternative): Bean seeds may also be started indoors and transplanted once temperatures are consistently above $16°C$. Use biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbance during transplanting.

Pinching: Pinching is not necessary for most bean varieties. However, providing a sturdy support structure is essential for vining types.

Soil Preference and Watering: Beans prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination and flowering.

Fertilizing: Beans are nitrogen-fixers, so they do not require much fertilizer. A single application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at the time of planting is typically sufficient. Inoculants can improve yields.

Harvesting: For eating, harvest beans when the pods are young and tender. For cut flower use, harvest the blooms when they are fully open. Cut the stems in the early morning and immediately place them in a vase of water