bean (broad) 'crimson-flowered'
broad bean or Vicia faba crimson-flowered
This lovely heritage variety, dating back to the 1800s, has recently been rediscovered and is now popular once again for its sumptuous deep crimson flowers, making it a pretty addition to an ornamental potager or even popped in among the flower borders. The blooms are followed by upright pods of sturdy beans with an excellent flavour.
If picked very young, broad beans have the most delicate flavour and can be eaten pod and all: just top and tail and steam whole.
If picked very young, broad beans have the most delicate flavour and can be eaten pod and all: just top and tail and steam whole.
How to care for bean (broad) crimson-flowered:
Plant broad beans in rich, well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially when the plants are in flower and pods are forming. Pinch out the growing tips once the first pods have set to reduce blackfly and encourage bushier plants. Harvest pods from the base of the plant upwards when they feel well filled and the beans inside are still tender. Pick regularly to encourage further cropping.
Sowing instructions:
Sow direct 25cm (10in) deep and 20cm (8in) apart into well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Protect from mice and slugs. If growing over winter, cover plants with a cloche during the very worst weather to prevent damage. Support loosely with canes and string once they reach 15cm (6in) tall and pinch out the tops to prevent blackfly.
Broad beans 'fix' nitrogen from the air, so cut spent plants off at ground level and leave roots to rot back into the ground to release nitrogen for next year's crops.
Broad beans 'fix' nitrogen from the air, so cut spent plants off at ground level and leave roots to rot back into the ground to release nitrogen for next year's crops.
Eventual height:
1.2m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
Position:
Full sun
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
approx 20 seeds
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now £2.09
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