Russian Black Fava
Vicia faba
Seeds per pack ~ 15
Germination: 99% (Packed for 2025)
Fava beans are one of the oldest cultivated plants and originated in the Middle East. Archaeological digs have shown that fava beans were first cultivated in the eastern Mediterranean over 10,000 years ago. Russian Black Fava beans originated in the gardens of Kievan Russia.
The Russian Black Fava Bean is a striking and rare variety of fava bean known for its deep purple-black seeds. This heirloom cultivar is prized for its rich flavor, cold tolerance, and ornamental appeal. Rich, nutty, and slightly earthy flavor; ideal for fresh or dried use. Excellent in soups, stews, and salads; dried beans can be stored for long-term use.
Key Characteristics: Grows upright, producing a bushy plant reaching 3-4 feet tall. The green pods containing 3-5 seeds each. Produces beautiful white flowers with dark purple-black markings. The seeds are large, deep black or dark purple when mature.
Growing Conditions: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant in well-draining, rich soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Regular watering needed, especially during flowering and pod development. This cool-season crop thrives in temperatures between 40-75°F (4-24°C). It is frost tolerant and capable of surviving light freezes.
Planting & Care: Sow in early spring or late fall in mild climates. Space seedlings 6-8 inches apart, in rows 18-24 inches apart. May need staking in windy areas. Grows well with carrots, lettuce, and spinach. Avoid planting near onions or garlic. Generally resistant to pests, though aphids can be an issue.
Harvesting: Young pods can be eaten fresh when small. Harvest mature beans when pods dry and black seeds are fully formed. 65 days to maturity for fresh beans, 85+ for dry bean
