Broad Leaf Windsor Fava Beans
A cherished classic in English gardening, our Broad Windsor Fava Beans present a gourmet delight, producing high-protein beans on upright, non-branching plants. These fava bean seeds not only yield a delectable harvest but also serve as an exceptional heirloom cover crop for the discerning home gardener. Widely embraced as a cool-hardy cover crop, Broad Windsor Fava Beans, when sown in the fall, contribute to the restoration of nitrogen in impoverished soils. This open-pollinated annual is renowned for its dual role, commonly grown not only for its world-famous creamy and nutty fava beans but also for its restorative properties, making it a valuable addition to any garden seeking both culinary excellence and soil enrichment.
Seed count: 15
Botanic name:
Vicia faba
Plant spacing:
4-6"/18-38" for rows
Color:
Bright green foliage, and bright green beans. Beans will dry to a light brown to buff color.
Sowing depth:
1 inch
Sun requirements:
Full sun
Utilization:
Fava beans, with their earthy flavor and creamy texture, offer a myriad of culinary possibilities. Fresh fava beans can be shelled, blanched, and peeled to reveal vibrant green gems that add a burst of freshness to salads or serve as a hearty addition to stews and soups. These beans also lend themselves to creative applications in main dishes, such as incorporating them into pasta, risotto, or as a mashed puree with garlic and lemon. For a delightful snack, consider roasting fresh fava beans with olive oil and seasonings, creating a crunchy and nutritious treat. Their adaptability extends to the dessert realm, where they can be blended into batters for cakes or brownies, adding a subtle nuttiness to sweet indulgences. Additionally, fava beans can be ground into flour, offering a gluten-free alternative for baking. Whether enjoyed on their own as a side dish or as a transformative element in a variety of recipes, fava beans invite culinary exploration and creative expression in the kitchen.
Frost hardy:
No
Maturity days:
80-100 days
Life cycle:
Annual
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Broad bean, fava bean, faba bean, field bean, bell bean, English bean, horse bean, Windsor bean, pigeon bean and tick bean
Bush / Pole type:
Bush
