Fava Bean

(Vicia faba)

Fava Bean (Vicia faba)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Vicia faba image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Vicia faba, commonly known as Fava Bean, is an annual herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region and parts of southwestern Asia, including Iran. It is not typically a vine but rather grows as an erect, bushy plant. Fava Bean is widely cultivated for its edible seeds and as a cover crop due to its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. It typically reaches a height of 0.5 to 1.8 meters (1 ft 8 in to 5 ft 11 in) with sturdy, square stems. The plant produces racemes of flowers that are 1 to 2.5 centimeters (1⁄2 to 1 inch) long, with white petals; the standard petals are white, while the wing petals are white with a true black spot, and the keel petals are also white. The flowers emit a strong sweet fragrance, which attracts bees and other pollinators, enhancing the plant’s ecological value.

The Fava Bean is valued for its hardiness and ability to thrive in a range of climates, including cooler regions. Its flowers are not only attractive to pollinators but also add aesthetic value to the garden. The beans are used in a variety of culinary dishes and are rich in protein. In cultivation, Fava Beans prefer full sun to part shade and can tolerate soils with high salinity and clay content, though they grow best in rich loams with medium drainage. They require moderate watering and are relatively easy to maintain. However, they can be susceptible to diseases such as fava bean mosaic virus and chocolate spot fungus. Additionally, the plant can become invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should check local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 4.5-6 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Black, Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to the Mediterranean region and parts of southwestern Asia, including Iran, and typically found in open grasslands and cultivated fields

Other Names

Common Names: Horsebean, Broad Bean, English Bean, Faba Bean, Field Bean, Horse Bean, Small Bean, Tick Bean, Windsor Bean, Favera

Scientific Names: , Vicia faba, Vicia faba subsp. minor, Vicia faba var. minor, Faba vulgaris, Vicia faba var. equina, Faba vulgaris var. equina, Faba communis, Vicia vulgaris, Faba sativa

GBIF Accepted Name: Vicia faba L.