A hardy cool-season legume that fixes nitrogen as it grows — sow direct in autumn for a heavy crop of buttery beans through late winter and spring.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Broad Bean
Botanically, Vicia faba is a moderate-growing edible plant in the Fabaceae family.
Where to grow Broad Bean
Broad Bean suits warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Broad Bean provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Broad Bean does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Broad Bean in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Broad Bean in the garden
Broad Bean earns its place for edible harvests.
Companion planting & design
Combine Broad Bean with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Broad Bean
Plant Sale lists Broad Bean as seed. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Broad Bean seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
