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 Reviews#RB117 · 15 seeds
Price
Regular price $4.50
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $4.50
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Description

Bright scarlet blooms climb skyward on vigorous vines, soon giving way to tender pods perfect for fresh snaps. Let them mature, and the magic deepens—pods swell with inky black beans that cook up rich, smooth, and full of flavor. Ready in 65 to 80 days, this edible ornamental pulls double duty, delivering early harvests and a second round of hearty dry beans. A true two-in-one classic, blending beauty, productivity, and deep, satisfying taste in one lively growing experience.

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

Growing Guide

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.

Browse our full range of runner bean seeds.

Customer reviews

4 / 5 11 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Striking red blooms: Sprays of scarlet flowers worth growing for looks alone.

  • Hummingbird magnet: Bees and hummingbirds crowd the red flowers.

  • Vigorous vines: Climbs fast and tall up a trellis, fence or garden arch.

  • Heads up: Pod set is often light; give full sun and expect few beans.

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