Phaseolus coccineus 'Ayocote Negro', 5 seeds
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Most gardening folks have heard of Scarlet Runner Beans, but few have tried this heirloom variety indigenous to specific communities in Mexico. An ornamental and edible tender perennial that can flower first year from seeds and be treated like an annual where it is not hardy, Ayocote Negro is a twiner that blooms from mid spring through summer. Though the pea-like flowers are red (alas! not black!) and look similar to those of the straight species, the pods, which can be eaten when young and tender, will eventually harden and dried up to produce big shiny totally black colored seeds (as pictured in the top-row versus the bottom row of speckled seeds of the straight species in one of the photos). These beans are firm without being starchy, and become even creamier with longer cooking. 10 feet or more. Full sun. Rich, well-drained soil. Average water. Fresh seeds, harvested 09/2018.