An Italian classic heirloom borlotti with red and white firey-looking pods, Firetongue beans are one of the most attractive beans as they grow, it’s almost a shame to pick them! But when you do, you can enjoy an incredibly versatile bean which can be eaten young fresh (steaming helps preserve the colour), or allowed to mature and dried as a delicious and nutritious addition to a winter casserole, soup or stew. Climbing habit.