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Description
Vicia Ervilia, commonly known as bitter vetch, is a leguminous plant that belongs to the pea family (Fabaceae). This annual plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The plant is valued for its edible seeds, which are used in traditional cuisines as a pulse or for making flour.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Vicia |
| Species | Vicia ervilia |
Appearance
Vicia Ervilia grows up to 1 meter tall and has a bushy, upright habit. The stem is slender and slightly hairy. The leaves are pinnate with 4-8 pairs of leaflets, each up to 2 cm long. The flowers are small and white, borne in clusters of 2-6 on short stalks. The pods are narrow and up to 6 cm long, containing 2-8 seeds each. The seeds are oblong, flattened, and brownish-yellow in color.
Care Guide
Water: Vicia Ervilia prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: The plant benefits from a balanced fertilizer application during the growing season.Soil: The plant grows best in well-draining, loamy soil with a neutral pH.Sunlight: Vicia Ervilia prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vicia Ervilia is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and root rot. Regular monitoring and appropriate treatment can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Vicia Ervilia is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly grown in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The plant prefers sunny, well-draining habitats and can thrive in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Vicia Ervilia a perennial plant?
A: No, Vicia Ervilia is an annual plant.Q: Can I eat the seeds of Vicia Ervilia?
A: Yes, the seeds of Vicia Ervilia are edible and used as a pulse or for making flour.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Vicia Ervilia?
A: Vicia Ervilia is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.Q: Is Vicia Ervilia a leguminous plant?
A: Yes, Vicia Ervilia belongs to the pea family (Fabaceae) and is a leguminous plant.
Related Plants
- Vicia faba
- Vicia sativa
- Vicia narbonensis
- Vicia villosa
References
- “Vicia ervilia (L.) Willd.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science.
- “Vicia ervilia.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Bitter Vetch.” Purdue University Center for New Crops & Plant Products.
