Broad beans -- also called fava beans in some countries -- are named for their large, flat, round seeds, which come in a variety of colours. The beans can be eaten fresh or dried, or planted to produce new bean plants.

  • Broad beans -- also called fava beans in some countries -- are named for their large, flat, round seeds, which come in a variety of colours.
1

Seed development

Broad bean plants take four to five months to grow. During this time, the bean seeds develop in large green pods 5 to 30 cm (2 to 12 inches) long.

2

Planting

Broad beans should be planted in cold weather in shallow soil -- about 5 cm (2 inches) deep. When the bean is watered, the shell softens, allowing nutrients to feed the growing plant.

3

Roots

As the plant begins to grow, the seed splits open, and roots develop to anchor the bean plant in the soil.

4

Sprouting

Once the roots are secure, the broad bean seed will sprout, producing a stem and leaves above ground. Both the roots and the stem will continue to grow.

5

Maturation

The broad bean seed will eventually grow into a leafy plant about 60 to 150 cm (2 to 5 feet) high. It will produce bean pods, which should be picked while they are still green.