A superb variety with all the best characteristics of modern runner beans, but on dwarf plants. Early to crop, often before standard types, with a good yield of tasty, long, straight, stringless pods, held above the soil to avoid disease. Ideal for small gardens, large containers and borders where its bicoloured flowers of red and white make an attractive addition.

Suitable For Freezing

Prefers to be grown in fertile, moist yet well drained soil which has had plenty of well rotted compost dug into it the previous autumn. For an early start sow from mid spring (April) in artificial heat at a temperature of 15-18C (60-65F) (propagator, greenhouse, warm room) in peat pots and plant out after last expected frost. Outdoors do not sow until at least 10 days after last frost 5cm (2in) deep. Sowing can normally be carried out in May and June. Sow 2 seeds every 23cm (9in) in rows 60cm (24in) apart.

Remove weaker seedlings after germination. Make sure soil is warm and avoid it becoming baked hard. In very exposed conditions provide some twiggy sticks for support.

Water regularly and liquid feed every 14 days during the mid summer. A thick mulch will help conserve moisture. Pick the beans regularly a little on the young side to ensure top quality and prolonged cropping.