Vicia faba 'Broad Windsor'
annual

Broad Windsor Fava Bean

Vicia faba 'Broad Windsor'

The Story

Plant Bio

Broad Windsor is a variety of broad bean known for its high yield and sweet flavor.

This cultivar produces large, flat pods and is particularly tolerant of cooler temperatures compared to other beans.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides lush green foliage and edible pods, enhancing vegetable gardens and edible landscapes.
Practical UsesRich in protein, supports crop rotation, and naturally fixes nitrogen in soil.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts pollinators like bees and beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity.
SpeciesVicia fabaFava Bean

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

36 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Mediterranean

Toxicity

Beans can be toxic if eaten raw, especially for individuals with G6PD deficiency (favism).

Bloom period

Early summer – Late summer

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
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In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil 1 inch deep in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
  3. Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 4 weeks during active growth.
  5. Prune dead or damaged foliage in late winter to promote healthy growth.
  6. Divide mature plants in early spring or fall for propagation.

Pro Tip

Soak seeds overnight before planting to improve germination success.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
  • Provide full sun for optimal growth
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
  • Fertilize during active growth periods

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not plant in heavy, poorly-drained clay soil
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization which may reduce flowering
  • Never disturb roots unnecessarily

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Harvest
Pinch
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Edible vegetable borderGreen screen hedgeWildflower garden accent

Companion Plants

Carrots Cabbage Corn Spinach Radishes

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Broad Windsor Fava Bean questions

What zones can Broad Windsor Fava Bean grow in?

Broad Windsor Fava Bean is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Broad Windsor Fava Bean deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Broad Windsor Fava Bean, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Broad Windsor Fava Bean bloom?

Broad Windsor Fava Bean typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Broad Windsor Fava Bean need full sun?

Broad Windsor Fava Bean does best in full sun (6+ hours).

More Vicia to compare

Fava Bean

Fava Bean

Vicia faba

Zones 4–7

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Grow Broad Windsor Fava Bean with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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