phaseolus vulgaris, edible seed cultivar (plant) cranberry bean plant Also known as borlotti bean in Italy, the cranberry bean has a large, knobby beige pod splotched with red. The beans inside are cream-colored with red streaks and have a delicious nutlike flavor. Cranberry beans must be shelled before cooking. Heat diminishes their beautiful red color. They're available fresh in the summer and dried throughout the year. borlotti bean phaseolus vulgaris shell bean shellout requires discussion