Broad bean (Vicia faba)

Also known as: Horse bean, Field bean

The chickpea (Cicer arietinum) is a fruit-bearing flowering plant related to the pea with uncertain origins. Known also as the garbanzo bean, gram, and Egyptian pea, it is extensively cultivated for human consumption and features prominently in various culinary traditions.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Broad bean

Lifespan

Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb, Vine

Plant Height

90 cm

Spread

45 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 to 2 centimeters

Flower Color

White Purple Black

Images of Broad bean

Quickly Identify Broad bean

Distinct zygomorphic white flowers with black markings

Leaves pinnate with 2-6 leaflets, ending in tendrils

Narrowly oblong fruit pods up to 11 inches long

Coarse, stout stem, hollow and square, reaching 2 feet in height

Fragrant flowers on unbranched racemes with purplish blotch

Scientific Classification of Broad bean

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Vetches

Species

Broad bean

Planting and Growing of Broad bean

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Broad bean?

Vicia faba, commonly known as the broad bean, requires a moderate amount of water to thrive. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering with approximately 500 milliliters allows the soil to absorb enough moisture while preventing excess water from pooling at the roots.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Broad bean? ›

What should I do if my Broad bean is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Broad bean? ›

How to save an overwatered Broad bean? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Broad bean?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Vicia faba excels in full sun to partial sun conditions, ideally receiving 6 to 8 hours of sunlight. This enhances photosynthesis rates, leading to strong growth and abundant yields.

Optimal Light Exposure ›

Adjusting Sunlight Exposure ›

Benefits of Adequate Sunlight ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Broad bean?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

The ideal temperature range for Vicia faba, commonly known as broad bean, is between 60°F to 70°F. This range is optimal for its metabolic processes, photosynthesis, and overall growth. During this temperature range, the plant can effectively carry out essential biological functions without stress, promoting healthy growth and development.

What Soil is Best for Broad bean?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Vicia faba requires a nutrient-rich soil to thrive. High levels of organic matter enhance growth and yield, providing essential nutrients that are crucial for healthy development. This plant prefers a soil that retains adequate moisture without becoming waterlogged. Consistent moisture supports steady growth and helps prevent stress-related issues. Maintaining a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5 is optimal for Vicia faba. Proper pH levels ensure the availability of essential nutrients and promote healthy plant growth. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Broad bean?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Vicia faba, moderation is key. Use about half a cup of a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK, for every square foot around the plant. Avoid direct contact with the stem to prevent burn. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Broad bean?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

To promote lateral growth, focus on cutting back the growing tips. Start by identifying the main stems and then prune back to a pair of healthy leaves or a growth node. This encourages the plant to become bushier. Inspect your Vicia faba regularly to spot any dead, diseased, or infested leaves and stems. Remove these as soon as they are noticed to prevent spread and allow the plant to focus energy on healthy growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Broad bean plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring,Late spring

Ensure that you are using high-quality, disease-free seeds. Inspect them for abnormalities or deformities that could impede germination.

Fill seed trays with potting mix, leaving about an inch from the top. This space allows for proper watering and air circulation around the seeds.

Place seeds evenly on the potting mix surface, then cover them lightly with soil. Maintain consistent spacing to prevent overcrowding as seedlings grow.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Broad bean plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repotting Vicia faba is best done in spring or autumn when the plant shows signs such as roots emerging from the drainage holes or a general slowdown in growth. These are indicators that the plant requires more space and nutrients to continue thriving.

Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, with good drainage holes at the bottom. This prevents waterlogging and enables proper root expansion, providing the plant with the space it needs for optimal growth.

Opt for well-draining loamy soil, enriched with organic matter. This type of soil retains the right amount of moisture while providing essential nutrients and promoting healthy root development, crucial for the plant's vigor.

Toxicity of Broad bean

Is Broad bean toxic to cat?

Broad beans present a moderate toxicity hazard to felines if consumed. Although the precise toxic agents are not specified, it is crucial to recognize that the seeds of broad beans are the primary toxic components of the plant. If cats ingest these seeds, they may experience symptoms of physical distress or illness. In the event that a cat consumes these seeds, it is vital for pet owners to promptly seek professional assistance from a veterinary facility to tackle the toxicity and avert more severe health complications.

Is Broad bean toxic to dog?

Broad beans present a moderate toxicity hazard to dogs, especially when they consume the plant's seeds. Ingesting these harmful components can result in various symptoms associated with poisoning. Dog owners should remain attentive to indicators like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, lethargy, or more critical reactions such as tremors or seizures. If a dog exhibits any of these signs after potential exposure to broad beans, it is crucial to obtain prompt veterinary assistance to secure the best possible outcome for the affected pet.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→