Bean Pole - Runner - Scarlet Emperor
The Bean Pole Runner Scarlet Emperpr, 'Phaseolus coccineus', has large sprays of brilliant rich, red flowers that contrast against deep green foliage. The Scarlet Emperor is grown for the flowers and the sweet pods. With such magnificent slender clusters of rich red flowers, the Scarlet Emperor is predominantly used as a flowering screen, vine, or fence cover. A little known fact is that this runner bean has an extremely rich beany sweet flavor when picked young. The pods may also be shelled for green or dried beans when pods mature. The Scarlet Emperor is an annual and is very frost sensitive. Pole types have 3 to 7 foot long vines. They have up to 12 inch long pods at maturity. Plant after the last average frost date. Scarlet Emperor beans prefer rich, organic, well drained, warm soils. ... additional information
Oxypetalum - Heavenly Blue The Oxypetalu Southern Star Heavenly Blue,'Oxpetalum caeruleum', displays a color rarely seen in flowers. The intense glacier blue 1 inch flowers are unlike anything you've ever seen. Even the buds are unique with their pale lavender color. The Southern Star also attracts hummingbirds. Heavenly Blue produces very decorative seed pods and they can be overwintered as a houseplant. They bloom mid summer to early fall. The Heavenly Blue prefers full sun and fairly rich garden soil. Deadheading the spent flowers before fruit set will prolong the bloom time. Plant after all danger of frost has passed. The Southern Star provides a most unusual cut flower. They also are great in patio containers or hanging baskets.
