Runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus L.) is, after common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), the second most important species, both around the world and in Poland. However, as compared to common bean, runner bean was not so well recognized, which is indicated by reports from literature. Among the most important values of this bean species are large and very large seeds (the weight of one thousand seeds: 900–3000 g), which, with respect to their nutritional value rival common bean seeds. There are forms of it that differ in plant growth type, morphological features of flowers, pods and seeds, as well as in the manner of use – green pods and for dry seeds. On the basis of world literature, results of the author’s own studies, as well as the studies conducted in Poland by her collaborators and other authors, the issues of development biology, agrotechnical and environmental requirements, flowering and pollination of this allogamous species were presented, as well as yielding, sensitivity to herbicides, effect of pathogenic factors upon generative organs, as well as chemical composition of runner bean seeds and pericarp (Phaseoli pericarpium).

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