Fava Bean

Vicia faba

Native to:
Palestine

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Vicia
Species:
Vicia faba
USDA Symbol:
VIFA

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Annual
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Vine
Height:
180 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
apr,may,jun
Bloom Colors:
white, purple

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Bertha armyworm (Mamestra configurata), Green Cloverworm Moth (Hypena scabra), Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella), Small Mocis Moth (Mocis latipes)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, beneficial insects
Fragrant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
good drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers fertile soils with high organic matter

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
None required
Germination Time:
7–14 days
Notes:
Direct sow in cool weather; seeds germinate readily without pretreatment. Prefers soil temperatures of 10-18°C.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months. Requires soaking 24-48 hrs; discard floaters.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society