Scarlet runner, also known as runner bean, is a popular vegetable and ornamental plant. Its spelling can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈskɑːrlɪt ˈrʌnə/, with the stress on the first syllable. The word "scarlet" is pronounced with a long "a" sound followed by a silent "r", while "runner" has a short "u" sound followed by a nasal "n". Combined, the two words create a visually descriptive term for the vibrant red color of the plant's blossoms.
The term "scarlet runner" is a noun phrase that refers to a specific type of plant known as Phaseolus coccineus. It is a climbing vine species that belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae. The scarlet runner plant is native to the mountainous regions of Central America and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world for both ornamental and edible purposes.
In terms of appearance, the scarlet runner plant typically features bright scarlet flowers that grow in clusters, hence the name "scarlet runner." The flowers eventually give way to long, slender green pods that contain edible seeds. These seeds are often used in various culinary preparations, including soups, stews, and salads.
Additionally, the scarlet runner plant is renowned for its ability to climb by twining its stems around supporting structures such as trellises or fences. Its vigorous growth and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscape designers as both a decorative and functional plant, providing an eye-catching display and adding vertical interest to outdoor spaces.
In summary, the term "scarlet runner" refers to a climbing vine species, Phaseolus coccineus, which bears scarlet flowers and is cultivated for its edible seeds. It is valued for its ornamental qualities and ability to climb and is commonly found in gardens, landscapes, and agricultural settings around the world.
The word "scarlet" derives from the Middle English word "scarlot", which came from the Old French word "escarlate". The Old French term originated from the Latin word "scarlatum", which referred to a type of brightly colored cloth.
The term "runner" refers to the plant species known as Phaseolus coccineus, which is commonly called the "scarlet runner bean". The name "runner" is given to the plant due to its long vine-like growth habit, as it tends to "run" or climb along trellises or other supports.
Therefore, the term "scarlet runner" is a combination of "scarlet", which signifies the vivid red color, and "runner", referring to the climbing nature of the plant.