Mysterious beans

Mon Apr 11, 2011 6:09 am

Hi there
I have found these growing by my back fence and would love to know what they are and how best to use them.
Looking forward to your help.
Thanks

[IMG]http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/deeebeee/120.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb414/deeebeee/119.jpg[/IMG]

Mon Apr 11, 2011 6:25 am

It's a runner bean. Maybe Scarlet Emperor.

Eric

Mon Apr 11, 2011 6:35 am

Very attractive

and productive

and tasty bean

Eric

Mon Apr 11, 2011 6:54 am

Thanks Eric. And scuse my ignorance, but I'm guessing you're only meant to eat the purpley beans inside (and not the green shells)?

Mon Apr 11, 2011 9:56 am

Oh no indeed! Runner beans are delicious when picked as the beans start to fill out but before the pods get tough and stringy. My DDs were very specific about not picking them too early. They sorted the cooked beans, showed them to me, and said: These don't taste as good. Pick them when they are THIS big. :lol:

So far, I haven't been able to grow enough to eat them as shelled fresh or dry beans. Only enough mature beans for next year's seed. Maybe Eric can tell us more.

Mon Apr 11, 2011 4:36 pm

Apple pretty much summed it up. Eat them as green beans when young and tender. Under 6" is best.

Eric