Runner Beans (Phaseolus coccineus) were grown in highlands of central America for at least 2000 years. They were introduced to Europe in early 1600s. Runner beans probably inspired the Jack and the Beanstalk story which first appeared in “Round About Our Coal Fire”, printed in 1734. Before climbing beans like these were introduced into Europe, “beans” usually meant broad beans.
Runner Beans
(Phaseolus coccineus)