The Cardinal creeper has a unique leaf. I have my doubts about it, but it's an annual. LOL. If I don't like it try something else next year right?

What are your doubts? Grows rapidly and blooms profusely in a hot summer climate. An easy-peasy annual vine. And is attractive to hummingbirds.

But, unlike Runner Beans, doesn't provide delicious veggies!

I got that... but I'm ok with it. I want this to be a flower not a veggie. The trellis is over the swing. :)

The flowers on the scarlet runners are the big attraction - that's why most folks grow this. The fact that it also produces edible beans is a bonus.

My doubts about the Cardinal Creeper is the leaf itself. Looks mediterranean or at least not natural to our zone. I didn't really like the flowers on the scarlet runners. :(

As it is a hybrid, it is not natural/native to your zone but still will grow perfectly well in your area. And it IS a member of the same genus as red morning glory, just with a different leaf shape, one of the features that makes it attractive or a bit more unique. It is a very popular annual vine in midwest gardens.

'The fact that it also produces edible beans is a bonus.'

That may be the case in the US. Over here it is the complete opposite. Runner beans are probably the commonest of all vegetables in the kitchen garden. People who grow nothing else will grow a few. The flowers are pretty much ignored. The company I get my veggie seeds from has 17 cultivars ... in the vegetable section. And none in the ornamental section.

Cypress vine has small red trumpets like it's half- brother cardinal creeper,and if you want something light,it's ferny,wispy foliage is a perfect match.Hummingbirds love it and it self seeds profusely.

I can't remember what I bought. LOL. I think I got the cardinal creeper. In fact I think I'll plant today.