6/14/2023: The utilitarian scarlet runner bean

Continuing this mini-series of garden related entries, I was shocked to find that my scarlet runner beans self-sowed into my patio garden area.

This is a large, robust, tropical perennial valued for its edible young pods, gorgeous nectar-rich flowers, beans, and root. Despite being a central American species, many Michigan native organisms recognize it as a food source. Hummingbirds, butterflies, bumblebees, and a groundhog (until Viktor found it) used the plant extensively.

I have not decided whether or not to pull these volunteers as my planted runner beans are already further along, but I suppose it can’t hurt to sleep on it for now…

-Kyle