The effect of crude oil on germination, growth and yield of broad bean was tested in contaminated soil. A series
of soil pollution levels, ranged between 1% and 10% (w/w) were prepared. The seed germination, vegetative
growth and yield of broad bean were investigated. Low concentration of crude oil was found to stimulate the
vegetative growth and increase the yield. High concentration of crude oil (4% and above) reduced the
germination percentage ,vegetative growth and yield. At concentrations of 8% & 10%, many seedlings had
reduced growth and survival. Hydrocarbons accumulated in shoot and pods (seeds) were separated and
monitored by quantitative gas chromatography (GC.). The residual n-alkanes and iso-alkanes of the saturates
fraction were decreased with increasing the pollution levels. Lighter n-alkanes (C10 – C20) were found only in the
shoots, while the higher carbon number n-alkanes (C20 – C31) were detected in both shoots and pods. The results
suggested not to grow edible plants in areas subjected to low or high concentration of petroleum oil.