Hairy Tare (Vicia hirsuta)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Seed - cooked. Used like lentils, the seed can be eaten as a staple food. Leaves and stems - cooked. Used as a vegetable. — Used like lentils, the seed can be eaten as a staple food.; Leaves and stems - cooked.; Used as a vegetable.

Habitat & North American Range

Grassy places. A common weed of cultivation, avoiding acid soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)