Broad bean Vicia faba 'Imperial Green Longpod'
ABOUT
The 'Imperial Green Longpod' is a variety of fava bean known for its productivity and hardiness. This plant produces attractive, upright growth with stems that bear large, bright green leaves. These leaves are typically oval-shaped with a smooth surface and a somewhat leathery texture. The 'Imperial Green Longpod' is distinguished by its long, slender pods that hang down from the plant. Each pod has a glossy appearance and holds several round to oval-shaped beans inside that are encased in a spongy, white inner lining. The fava beans themselves are initially green, turning to a brown color as they mature. Additionally, this plant may produce delicate white flowers with black markings, which are not only visually appealing but also serve to attract pollinators. The overall visual effect of the 'Imperial Green Longpod' is one of lush greenery punctuated with pods and the occasional flourish of white blooms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae.
Synonyms
Broad Bean, Fava Bean, Field Bean, Bell Bean, Tic Bean.
Common names
Faba bona Medik., Faba equina Medik., Faba sativa Moench, Faba vulgaris Moench, Vicia esculenta Salisb., Vicia vulgaris Gray.
ToxicityTo humans
Broad bean, commonly known as fava bean, can be toxic to some individuals who have a hereditary condition called Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. This condition primarily affects the red blood cells and can lead to a type of anemia called favism after consuming fava beans. Symptoms of favism can include fatigue, headache, abdominal pain, fever, and in severe cases, jaundice. Additionally, the ingestion of raw or undercooked beans can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to lectins and tannins, even in people without G6PD deficiency.
To pets
Broad bean toxicity in pets, particularly dogs and cats, is not well-documented. However, it is essential to note that the ingestion of large quantities of fava beans might cause gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Generally, pets should not be fed fava beans, especially if they are raw or undercooked, as they could present a choking hazard or cause digestive irritation.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- High-Protein Crop: The Broad Bean provides a significant source of plant-based protein, which is essential for the diet.
- Nitrogen Fixation: As a legume, it enriches the soil with nitrogen, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
- Pollinator Friendly: Flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity in the garden.
- Cold Tolerant: Capable of growing in cooler climates and can be one of the first crops planted in the spring.
- Food Security: The beans are a staple food in many parts of the world and can be stored for long periods.
- Culinary Versatility: Broad Beans can be eaten fresh, dried, or cooked, and used in a variety of dishes.
- Green Manure: When chopped and dug into the soil, the plant acts as green manure, improving soil quality.
- Edible at Different Stages: The young pods can be eaten whole, or the mature beans can be shelled and cooked.
- Wildlife Habitat: The plants can provide shelter and habitat for various garden wildlife.
- Easy to Grow: Broad Beans are relatively easy to cultivate, making them suitable for beginner gardeners.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: The seeds of Vicia faba contain polyphenolic compounds which can act as antioxidants.
- Neuroprotective potential: The L-Dopa content in broad beans may have benefits in the management of Parkinson's disease.
- Dyslipidemia management: Some studies suggest that the consumption of broad beans can help in lowering lipid levels.
- Antihyperglycemic effect: Vicia faba seeds might help in the management of blood sugar levels, potentially beneficial for diabetics.
- Dietary fiber content: The high fiber content in broad beans can aid in digestive health and bowel regularity.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Vicia faba 'Imperial Green Longpod', commonly known as broad bean, can be used as a natural dye for textiles, providing various shades of green depending on the mordant used.
- In the garden, broad bean plants are often used as a cover crop to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving fertility for subsequent plantings.
- The sturdy stems of the broad bean plant can be used as material for weaving baskets and other crafts when dried properly.
- Broad beans can be employed in educational activities, teaching children about plant growth, pollination, and the life cycle of legumes.
- The flowers of the broad bean plant can be used in floral arrangements for their aesthetic appeal and light fragrance.
- Used as a companion plant, broad beans can help deter certain pests from more vulnerable crops due to their specific plant chemistry.
- The fuzzy pods of the broad bean can be used as a tactile material in sensory gardens, especially designed for the visually impaired.
- The thick leaves of the plant can sometimes be used as a natural mulch or compost material, adding nutrients back into the garden soil.
- Broad bean plants can be used in science experiments to study the effects of different fertilizers or environmental conditions on plant growth.
- The parchment-like husks of dried broad beans can be used as a fire starter material due to their flammability and abundance after harvest.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Broad Bean is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Broad Bean is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Productivity: Fava beans, also known as broad beans, are often associated with productivity and abundance due to their prolific nature and use as a staple food in many cultures.
- Perseverance: As they can grow in various conditions, fava beans symbolize the ability to thrive and persevere in different environments.
- Good Luck: In some traditions, fava beans are carried as charms for good luck or used in ceremonies to bring about good fortune.
- Prosperity: Their role as a nutrient-rich food source leads them to be seen as symbols of prosperity and well-being.
WaterFava beans, including the 'Imperial Green Longpod', should be watered deeply and thoroughly to ensure that the water reaches the entire root system. During active growth, watering should occur once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time, which equates to about half a gallon per square foot. In drier climates or during particularly hot spells, increase the frequency to twice a week. Overhead watering can lead to leaf diseases, so it is best to apply water directly to the base of the plant using a soaker hose or a drip irrigation system. Avoid overwatering as fava beans do not like waterlogged soil.
LightFava beans require full sunlight to thrive, so the 'Imperial Green Longpod' should be planted in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate some light shade, but this may reduce the plant's vigor and productivity. Avoid placing fava beans in areas where tall buildings or trees will cast shade on them for extended periods.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature for fava beans to flourish is between 60°F and 65°F. They are tolerant of cold and can survive minimum temperatures down to about 40°F, which makes them suitable for early spring planting. Fava beans may suffer in the heat, and temperatures consistently above 75°F may hamper their growth or cause the plants to stop flowering.
PruningFava beans typically do not require regular pruning, but 'Imperial Green Longpod' can be pinched back once they reach about 3 feet in height to encourage bushier growth and potentially higher yields. Pruning is best done in the early stages of growth before flowers appear. Remove any diseased or damaged portions of the plant as needed throughout the growing season to maintain plant health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBroad beans prefer well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. A mix with equal parts compost, loamy soil, and peat or coconut coir works well, aiming for a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8 for optimal growth.
RepottingBroad beans, being annuals, don't typically require repotting as they complete their life cycle in one growing season. They are sown directly into the garden or outdoor containers where they will remain until harvest.
Humidity & MistingBroad beans are adaptable to a range of humidity levels; however, they perform best in moderate conditions. Avoiding overly humid environments can help prevent fungal infections.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure ample light and use large pots with proper soil mix.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, space 8 inches apart, after frost danger.
Hardiness zone
3-10 USDA
Life cycleThe Vicia faba 'Imperial Green Longpod', commonly known as the Broad Bean, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown in the soil, typically in early spring or late autumn. Germination follows, with seedlings emerging within 10 to 30 days, depending on conditions. As it grows, the plant develops a strong root system and sturdy stems, with leaves unfurling to begin photosynthesis. The vegetative stage sees the plant increasing in size and producing more leaves, ultimately leading to the flowering stage, where the plant produces characteristic black and white flowers. These flowers are then pollinated, leading to the formation of long green pods containing the seeds. Finally, as the pods mature, they become filled with the new seeds, at which point they can be harvested, and the plant completes its life cycle, often dying off as it’s an annual species.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Vicia faba 'Imperial Green Longpod', commonly known as broad bean, is typically propagated by seeds. The most popular method involves sowing seeds directly into the ground. Ideal propagation time for broad beans in cooler climates is in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, but in areas with mild winters, planting can occur in late fall. To propagate, seeds should be planted about 2 inches (5 cm) deep and spaced approximately 6 inches (15 cm) apart in rows that are 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart. It's important to ensure the soil is well-drained and has been enriched with compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Broad beans prefer a sunny position and will benefit from support as they grow, which can be provided by staking or using a trellis system. The seeds will typically germinate in 7 to 14 days, depending on soil temperatures.
