Hairy Tare, Tiny vetch

Vicia hirsuta

Physical Characteristics

Vicia hirsuta is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). 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

Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to N. Africa and W. Asia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked[2, 105, 177]. Used like lentils[2], the seed can be eaten as a staple food[178]. Leaves and stems - cooked[105, 177, 178]. Used as a vegetable[272]

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known