Heirloom dating back to 1864; originally known as 'Old Homestead' but later renamed 'Kentucky Wonder' due to its size which was indeed a wonder with plants up to 2.2m high.  Round, long, slightly curved, green bean 15-20cm long with brown seeds.  Stringless when young. Heavy producing - pick regularly to maintain production.  Excellent fresh, cooked or frozen. Resistant to bean rust. 58-70 days. 135 seeds

Heirloom, also known as 'Blue Coco'.  Straight, flat, bright purple bean to 18cm, heavy bearing, producing over many weeks; changes to green colour when cooked.  65-90 days.  120 seeds

HINT:  To get the most from one bean plant, cut back the original bush to 50-60cm above the ground once it has finished producing.  For some varieties, this will encourage it to rapidly grow again, producing another crop.

(Phaseolus coccineus)  Perennial - Scarlet Runner type also known as 'Seven Year Bean'.  Vigorous vine with scarlet coloured flowers; produces numerous flat, green beans.  Best when picked young.  Attractive in the garden.  Scarlet Runner first introduced in 1600's.  Cool climate only; tolerates heat, drought & cold climate well.  70-90 days.  25 seeds

DID YOU KNOW:  Unlike other beans, the cotyledons (seed leaves) of the runner bean remain under the ground as the seedling emerges.  Also, the growing vine turns anti-clockwise rather than clockwise.