Scorpio pods contain an average of 8 small to medium sized white beans, with good texture & flavour. A very heavy late cropper.

Sow February-March.

Prefers a fairly heavy loam but succeeds in a sunny position in most soils that are well-drained. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Dislikes dry conditions according to some report, whilst another says that it is drought tolerant once established. Prefers a pH in the range 5.5 to 7.

Broad beans are often cultivated for their edible seed and sometimes also as a green manure crop.

The burnt stems are rich in potassium and can be used in making soap.

Grows well with carrots, cauliflowers, beet, cucumber, cabbages, leeks, celeriac, corn and potatoes, but is inhibited by onions, garlic and shallots.

Pre-soak the seed for 24 hours in warm water and then sow in situ in succession from late winter until early summer. Germination should take place in about 7 - 10 days.

This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby. When removing plant remains at the end of the growing season, it is best to only remove the aerial parts of the plant, leaving the roots in the ground to decay and release their nitrogen.

Edible uses