As we fast approach mid-summer, there's an abundance of colour wherever we look. But spare a thought for the humble legume. From deepest scarlet to delicate shades of lilac and cream, the humble garden bean can add beauty and colour to the vegetable plot and beyond.
Below: from left to right:
Broad bean 'Bunyards Exhibition' has black and white flowers which remind me of a Dalmatian's coat. Runner bean 'Scarlet Emperor' has flowers of lipstick red, good enough to kiss. But dwarf bean 'Tendergreen' is perhaps the most seductive with her lilac tipped petals which fade to creamy-yellow at the base. Subtle and delicate.
Broad bean 'Bunyards Exhibition' has black and white flowers which remind me of a Dalmatian's coat. Runner bean 'Scarlet Emperor' has flowers of lipstick red, good enough to kiss. But dwarf bean 'Tendergreen' is perhaps the most seductive with her lilac tipped petals which fade to creamy-yellow at the base. Subtle and delicate.