Black Knight Runner Bean pods and beans with blooms on a white background.
Pods, beans and blooms of Black Knight Runner Beans with foliage arranged on white background.
Black Knight Runner Bean blooms in a white vase with beans, pods and foliage on a white background.
A couple of whole and a single halved pods of Black Knight Runner Beans with blooms and beans.
An extreme close-up of bright pink Black Knight Runner Beans with blooms and cut beans in the green stage.
Pods, blooms, beans and cut Black Knight Runner Beans arranged on a pastel background.
Beans, foliage, pods and blooms of Black Knight Runner Beans with cut beans in green stage on a pastel background.
Black Knight Runner Bean pods and beans with blooms on a white background.
Pods, beans and blooms of Black Knight Runner Beans with foliage arranged on white background.
Black Knight Runner Bean blooms in a white vase with beans, pods and foliage on a white background.
A couple of whole and a single halved pods of Black Knight Runner Beans with blooms and beans.
An extreme close-up of bright pink Black Knight Runner Beans with blooms and cut beans in the green stage.
Pods, blooms, beans and cut Black Knight Runner Beans arranged on a pastel background.
Beans, foliage, pods and blooms of Black Knight Runner Beans with cut beans in green stage on a pastel background.

Runner Bean Seeds,
Black Knight

411 ReviewsSKU: #RB117Min. seed count: 15
Price
Regular price $4.50
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Description

(Phaseolus coccineus) Pole bean. A scrumptious edible ornamental with scarlet red blooms that yield inky black beans. The young tender pods make superior snap beans. Allow the pods to swell and beans to mature and you will be rewarded with a culinary delight. The dried beans are a deep obsidian color, and their flavor and texture are fantastic!

Growing Tips: Black Knight runner beans thrive in full sun with rich, well-drained soil. Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting. These beans benefit from consistent moisture, so regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. Mulch to retain soil moisture and keep roots cool.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Phaseolus coccineus
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Pole
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–8
Days to Maturity
65–80
Planting Depth
1 in.
Plant Spacing
8 in.
Ideal Temperature
60–85°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Black Knight runner beans after the last frost date when soil temperatures are consistently warm. In mild climates, you can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost and transplant them outside after hardening off. For direct sowing, wait until late spring when the soil is adequately warmed​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1 inch deep. Space plants about 8 inches apart in rows. If starting indoors, use biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbance during transplanting. Ensure seedlings are well-watered and kept in a sunny spot. Harden off seedlings for at least a week before transplanting them outside​. Plants mature in 65-80 days.

How to Grow

Support vines with a trellis or other climbing structures. Regularly water the plants and use mulch to help retain soil moisture. Fertilize with a balanced or potassium-rich fertilizer once flowers appear. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of bean production​.

How to Save Seeds

  • This is a self-pollinating bean that can on occasion be insect pollinated. To prevent crossing between different runner bean varieties, isolate by 500 feet.
  • Allow pods to brown and dry. Beans are ready for saving when they are so hard that your fingernail cannot dent them.
  • Store in a cool, dark, dry place.
  • Runner bean vines also produce a tuber that can be dug in fall and saved over winter. This can be replanted in spring and plants will establish and bloom earlier.

FAQ

How do I support Black Knight runner beans?

Use trellises or other sturdy climbing structures. Ensure supports are tall enough, as the vines can reach significant heights.

What are common pests and diseases for Black Knight runner beans?

Common issues include aphids, slugs, snails, bean rust, and bacterial blight. Employ organic pest control methods and ensure good air circulation around plants to prevent diseases.

When should I harvest Black Knight runner beans?

Harvest pods when they are 6-8 inches long and tender for the best flavor. Regular harvesting encourages continued production. Mature pods can be left to dry for seed saving.

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