Viola taba
Family: Leguminosae

This upright-growing annual reaches over 1.5 m (5 ft) in good conditions and is used both for human and animal food. It is a spring and summer crop for cool areas, where it can be sown in the spring. Alternatively it is sown in autumn for overwintering and producing earlier crops the following year. This bean will not produce good results under hot, dry conditions. The fresh pods are usually boiled or steamed until tender and served with a white or butter sauce. Alternatively, the seeds can be dried. Both the seeds and the pods are rich in protein.

Varieties

There are numerous varieties, both short and tall growers.

Cultivation

Plant these beans in a reasonably fertile, well-limed soil, with good drainage. They also like a sunny position and ample water during the growing season. Sow seed at a depth of 5 cm (2 in), then thin seedlings to a distance of 15 cm (6 in). As the plants mature, apply complete fertilizer in bands about 30 cm (12 in) from each side of the plants. However, too much nitrogen in the fertilizer will delay flowering. Mulching with animal manure or composted material will encourage the development of healthy plants. The beans are ready to pick in about 20 weeks. Tall varieties may need support. Stakes can be placed around a group of plants with twine stretched between the stakes to support the plants.

Climate

Grow broad beans as an annual in cool climates.