Lentil Vetch

(Vicia lentoides)

Lentil Vetch (Vicia lentoides)

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Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Climate Requirements

Precipitation 10" - 64"
High Temp. 61°F - 104°F
Low Temp. 14°F - 58°F
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Summary

Vicia lentoides, commonly known as Lentil Vetch, is a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region, specifically thriving in grasslands, open woodlands, and scrub areas. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and a width of 1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.5 meters). Lentil Vetch has compound leaves with multiple leaflets and bears racemes of pink or white flowers that bloom in the spring, adding a subtle charm to garden spaces. The flowers are not particularly showy but are appreciated for their delicate appearance.

Lentil Vetch is valued for its nitrogen-fixing abilities, which can improve soil fertility, making it a beneficial plant for restoration projects and organic gardens. It is often used in wildflower meadows, as a cover crop, or in naturalized areas where it can provide erosion control. This plant is drought-tolerant once established and requires low amounts of water, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It thrives in full sun to part shade and adapts well to a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils with medium to fast drainage. While generally disease-resistant, Lentil Vetch can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type:
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to grasslands, open woodlands, and scrub areas in the Mediterranean region

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Vicia lentoides , Ervum dalmaticum , Ervum lentoides , Ervum nigricans , Ervum sylvaticum , Ervum villosum , Lathyrus nigricans , Lens biebersteinii , Lens cordata , Lens culinaris subsp. nigricans

GBIF Accepted Name: Vicia lentoides