What are Scarlet Runner Beans? They bloom profusely, attracting both hummingbirds and bees. The vines can grow to 5 metres long, but in colder areas usually only reach 2-3 metres in length. The flowers are usually red but can also be white. The flowers are edible and taste like beans. The pods are edible when young. The red flowering scarlet runners have beans that are black with purple mottling. The beans can be eaten fresh or dried. If you elect to dry them, be sure to soak them for 6 to 8 hours before cooking them. How to Grow Scarlet Runner Beans from Seeds Scarlet runner beans need full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Keep your vines well-watered, at least 2 cm each week. A thick layer of mulch will help keep the soil moist between watering. A balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 is bes t. Scarlet runner beans are a great project for a child’s garde