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Vicia amurensis

Vicia amurensisfam. Fabaceae
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edibleperennialedibleedible leafedible seednative asiaperennialshade tolerant
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pressed specimen — vicia amurensis
Pl. 8C92 — Vicia amurensis
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Overview

Vicia amurensis, a perennial legume belonging to the Fabaceae family, is native to regions in East Asia, including the Amur area, China North-Central, Chita, Inner Mongolia, Japan, Khabarovsk, Korea, Manchuria, Mongolia, and Primorye. This plant thrives in moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, making it adaptable to various habitats. With a height of 1.5 meters, Vicia amurensis can be an ornamental addition to gardens while also providing a valuable food source. The leaves of this plant are edible and can be consumed fresh or cooked, often prepared by steaming or stir-frying to add a nutritious touch to meals. Additionally, Vicia amurensis is known for its nitrogen-fixing abilities, enriching the soil through its root nodules. While not medicinal, this plant offers practical benefits for both ornamental and culinary purposes.

Quick answers

What is Vicia amurensis?

Vicia amurensis, a perennial legume belonging to the Fabaceae family, is native to regions in East Asia, including the Amur area, China North-Central, Chita, Inner Mongolia, Japan, Khabarovsk, Korea, Manchuria, Mongolia, and Primorye.

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Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Vicia amurensis thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows up to 1.5 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist, and provide ample sunlight. Propagate through seeds or division in the spring or fall. Harvest the edible leaves for use in cooking.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Vicia amurensis for the first time

8steps

Start with Vicia amurensis as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A small shovel or trowel, seeds or seedlings, and a watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring after the last frost or in late summer for fall blooms.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure it gets full to partial sun.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in the ground. For containers, use a pot at least 30 cm wide and plant one seed per container.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize sparingly with compost or organic matter once a year.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth starts to maintain shape and encourage healthy blooms.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Vicia amurensis are edible and can be consumed fresh or cooked. They are often prepared by steaming or stir-frying to add a nutritious touch to meals.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

10 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 10 native
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanMongoliaSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Amur, Chita, Khabarovsk, Primorye
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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