Broad bean Vicia faba
ABOUT
Vicia faba, commonly known as the broad bean, is a flowering plant that bears distinctive features. The plant typically has a sturdy, upright stem and is well-branched. Its leaves are large, usually a rich green color, with a slightly waxy texture. Each leaf is made up of several oval-shaped leaflets that grow opposite to each other along a central stem. The broad bean is known for its impressive flowers, which range in color from white to a very pale purple. These blossoms often feature a dark spot on the petal and exude a subtle, sweet fragrance attractive to pollinators. The flowers grow in clusters along the top of the stems. Following the flowering stage, the plant produces elongated pods that encase the seeds. The pods are typically green and have a leathery texture with a slightly downy feel on the exterior. They are bulky and can contain several seeds inside. The seeds themselves, which are the broad beans, are plump and can vary in color, though they are often green when unripe and dry to a brownish hue as they mature. They are encased in a tough outer skin that sometimes displays a white, cotton-like substance when freshly picked. These beans are commonly harvested for culinary use and have a substantial, meaty texture when cooked.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae.
Synonyms
Broad Bean, Fava Bean, Field Bean, Bell Bean, Tick Bean, Horse Bean, Pigeon Bean, Windsor Bean, English Bean, Ful.
Common names
Faba bona Medik., Faba faba (L.) House, Faba vulgaris Moench, Faba equina Gray, Vicia equina (Gray) Alef., Vicia vulgaris (Moench) Alef., Vicia minor Desf., Vicia esquirolii H.Lév., Vicia giueguef Mouterde, Vicia autumnalis Spreng.
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 Nutritional Value: Broad beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber, which are important for muscle growth, digestive health, and maintaining a balanced diet.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: They contain a variety of vitamins, such as vitamin K, vitamin B6, and folate, as well as minerals like iron, copper, manganese, and magnesium.
- Supports Food Security: Broad beans can thrive in diverse climates, making them a valuable crop for ensuring food supply in different environmental conditions.
- Nitrogen Fixation: As a legume, the plant can fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and improving soil fertility.
- Culinary Versatility: Broad beans can be eaten fresh or dried, and are used in a wide range of dishes across different cultures, offering culinary diversity.
- Feed for Livestock: The foliage and pods can be used as fodder for livestock, providing an additional resource for farmers.
- Inter-cropping Advantages: Broad beans can be grown alongside other crops, helping to maximize land use and potentially deterring pests due to their aromatic properties.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant Activity: Vicia faba, commonly known as fava bean, contains compounds that exhibit antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and may support overall health.
- Parkinson's Disease: L-DOPA, a natural compound found in fava beans, has been used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, although it is not a standalone treatment and should be monitored by medical professionals.
- Dietary Fiber: Fava beans are high in dietary fiber which may contribute to gastrointestinal health and can aid in preventing constipation and promoting a healthy digestive tract.
- Iron-Source for Anemia: Fava beans are a good source of iron, which can be beneficial in diets where iron-deficiency anemia is a concern, especially in regions where iron-rich meats are scarce.
- Protein Source: With a high protein content, fava beans can support tissue repair and muscle building, which is critical in recuperation and maintaining body functions.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Vicia faba, commonly known as fava beans, can serve as a natural dye for textiles, providing various shades of green and brown depending on the mordant used.
- They can be used as animal fodder, particularly for cattle, to provide a protein-rich supplement in their diet.
- Fava bean plants are sometimes incorporated into crop rotations as they can fix nitrogen in the soil, improving its fertility for subsequent crops.
- The stems and leaves of fava beans can be used as a green manure, being plowed back into the soil to enhance its organic matter content and structure.
- Fava beans can also be used in biogas production due to their high biomass yield, contributing to renewable energy solutions.
- Fava beans are used in cooking oil production in some parts of the world, where the seeds are pressed for their oil.
- They can act as a natural pest repellent, deterring certain pests and thus used in polyculture or companion planting.
- In some regions, the husks of fava beans are burnt to produce potash, used for soap-making or as a fertilizer.
- The dried stalks and pods of fava bean plants can be used as kindling or as a component of fuel briquettes for heating.
- Fava beans, being rich in starch, have potential use in the manufacturing of biodegradable plastics and packaging materials.
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- Prosperity: Vicia faba, commonly known as the broad bean, has been a staple in various cuisines and historically represented abundance due to its high nutritional value and ability to thrive in diverse climates.
- Fertility: Because they are nitrogen-fixing plants and improve soil quality, broad beans symbolize fertility and the capacity to promote growth in other plants around them.
- Fortune: In some cultures, it's believed that carrying a broad bean can bring good luck, and they are sometimes used in celebrations like weddings for this reason.
- Connection to the Dead: During the Roman period, broad beans were often associated with death and the afterlife, with the belief that they housed the souls of the deceased.
WaterBroad beans (Vicia faba) need consistent moisture, especially during flowering and pod formation. Water them deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time. Ensure the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches. During dry spells, increasing the frequency to maintain soil moisture is crucial. Overhead watering is not recommended as it can promote disease; instead, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the root zone. Reduce watering once the beans begin to mature and the pods are almost ready to harvest to encourage drying down.
LightBroad beans thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Plant them in a location that receives unobstructed sunlight for most of the day to ensure healthy growth and optimal pod production. Avoid shaded areas as lack of light can reduce yield and affect overall plant vigor.
TemperatureBroad beans prefer cool temperatures and can withstand frost to some extent. They can survive in temperatures as low as 21°F and as high as 75°F, but the ideal growing range is between 40°F and 70°F. They should be planted in early spring or fall to take advantage of cooler weather. Avoid extreme heat, as it can hinder pod formation and reduce yield.
PruningPruning is not typically required for broad beans, but pinching out the growing tips after the first pods have set can help deter blackfly infestations and encourage bushier growth. The best time to do this is once the plant has reached a sufficient height and several pods have begun to form. Pruning off any damaged or diseased stems throughout the growing season can also help promote healthy growth and good air circulation around the plants.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBroad beans favor a well-drained, rich, and loamy soil with pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A mix with compost or aged manure will enhance fertility and support robust growth.
RepottingBroad beans, typically grown as annuals, do not require repotting as they are sown directly into the ground each season and harvested at the end of their cycle.
Humidity & MistingBroad beans are adaptable to various humidity levels but prefer moderate conditions. They do not require specific humidity adjustments for healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow broad beans in large pots with ample sunlight.
Outdoor
Sow broad beans in full sun, space well, protect from wind.
Hardiness zone
6-11 USDA
Life cycleVicia faba, commonly known as the broad bean, begins its life cycle with the germination of seeds, which occurs when soil temperatures and moisture conditions are suitable, typically in early spring. The seedlings emerge, establishing a root system and growing their first true leaves. As the plant matures, it develops a strong stem and leafy growth, during which it undergoes photosynthesis to gather energy for flowering and reproduction. The broad bean then enters the flowering stage, producing characteristic white flowers with black markings that lead to pollination, either by insects or through self-pollination. Following pollination, the flowers develop into long, green pods that contain the beans, which grow and fill out the pods. Once the pods mature and the beans inside reach full size, the plant begins senescence, the pods dry out, and the entire plant dies back, having completed its life cycle and leaving behind seeds for the next generation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most common name for Vicia faba is broad bean. Its propagation is best done by sowing seeds directly into the soil. The ideal time to sow broad beans is either in late fall or early spring. In fall, this allows for the development of strong roots before the winter. On the other hand, spring sowing should be done as soon as the soil can be worked, which helps avoid plants becoming tough in the heat of summer. For propagation, one should plant the seeds about 1 to 2 inches deep (2.5 to 5 cm) and space them about 6 to 8 inches apart (15 to 20 cm). Watering should be done carefully to maintain moist soil conditions until sprouts appear. No other propagation methods are commonly used for broad beans, as they are best grown from seeds.
