Butterfly Runner Phaseolus coccineus Play pronunciation

Snap Beans are an annual vegetable, grown as a vine that can mature to 12 feet, producing edible beans as well as edible flowers in summer and fall. It is native to Central and South America. It is the rare species that is grown as a vegetable food plant (beans, flowers, and leaves) and as an ornamental plant (red flowers). The genus name is Greek for fava beans. The species name means scarlet.

Snap Beans do best in consistently moist, organically rich, well drained soil sited in full sun. It is frost tender and does not do well in the shade. Sow seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. In frost-free climates, Snap Beans can be grown as perennials, but at the first hint of frost, they will die back to the ground. You can start Snap Beans in pots 4 to 6 weeks before last frost and then plant outside. However, it is more typical to plant seeds outdoors at the last frost date in spring. 

Plant the seeds in rows and, because it is a vine, provide poles or other support for the plant to climb on. Flower production can be abundant in hot summers and continue through the season until first fall frost. Bean production, however, may lag in hot summer temperatures. Flowers should be harvested as soon as they appear and only last a day or two. Pick beans when ripe to encourage new flowers.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Can be susceptible to mosaic viral disease, bacterial blight, anthracnose, powdery mildew and white mold. Mexican bean beetles and Japanese beetles can attack the foliage. Until established, growing plants may need some protection from slugs.