Fabaceae · Vicia faba
This variety was first cultivated in Spain.
Also known as: Fava bean, Faba bean
Cost per seed: $0.13
Regarded as the best broad bean for autumn sowings, this heavy-cropping early strain produces fragrant black and white flowers and copious stunning emerald-green beans. One of the first treasures of the spring harvest. Early sowings need wind protection or staking to support the stems. A true highlight and culinary delight of the cool climate vegie garden.
A true heirloom cool season broad bean that has been popular in gardens for over 100 years, this variety was originally referred to as 'Agua Dulce Long-Podded' by Vilmorin in 1885, reflecting its Spanish heritage. Nowadays, it is commonly called 'Aquadulce' which also translates as "sweet water". The young tender beans are delicious either braised or used fresh in salads, while older beans can be blanched and shelled to reveal the treasure inside.
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Broad beans can be planted from autumn to spring, but must be done so that they finish flowering before the daytime temperature reaches 20 deg C. Keep well watered. Plants may need staking.
Preferring slightly alkaline soil, the addition of some lime is beneficial in more acidic soils. Although they are prone to wind damage, they need a reasonable amount of air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. The best solution is to place stakes at the end of the rows and tie string from stake to stake to support them.
Pinch 10cm off the top of the plants as the flowers are fading to help 'set' the pods.
Common Problems: Aphids, Rust, Chocolate Spot, Pea beetles, Tough pods, peas or beans
Harvest regularly to encourage more pods.
Broad beans are ready to harvest when they are large enough to eat. Harvest small pods (7.5cm or more) to eat whole. Harvest pods to shell when the beans are visible through the pod; small beans are more tender than larger beans. Pods growing lower on the plant will mature before those growing at the top of the plant. Harvest pods by cutting with snips/secateurs.
The flowers and growing tips of the plants can also be harvested and eaten. Eat the flowers raw in salads or as a garnish. Eat the growing tips raw or lightly cooked in salads or stir fries.
For short term storage, pods can be kept in a perforated plastic bag in the fridge. For longer term storage, beans can be removed from the pods, blanched and frozen.
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