Bitter Vetch

Vicia ervilia

Physical Characteristics

Vicia ervilia is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. Europe.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked[46, 61, 74, 105]. Used as a lentil[2], it is occasionally eaten in soups. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

One report says that the seed might be poisonous[46].