Hairy Tare
Vicia hirsuta
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Pl. AA00 — Vicia hirsuta
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IOverview
Overview
Hairy Tare (Vicia hirsuta) is a light-loving, annual vine or herb that can be found in diverse regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and many other countries across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Native to Afghanistan, Albania, and Algeria, this plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), with a pH of 5–5.5. It is known for its edible parts—leaves and seeds—which are often consumed. Hairy Tare can grow up to 0.5 meters tall and is hardy in zones 4-9, making it adaptable to various climates. Its distinctive feature lies in its hairy texture, which sets it apart from other vetches.
Quick answers
What is Hairy Tare?
Hairy Tare (Vicia hirsuta) is a light-loving, annual vine or herb that can be found in diverse regions including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and many other countries across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Hairy Tare thrives in light to medium soil with a pH between 5 and 5.5, preferring moisture but not overly wet conditions. This annual plant grows up to 0.5 meters tall and can be cultivated as a vine or herb. It is hardy in zones 4-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. For best results, sow seeds directly into the garden soil after all danger of frost has passed. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged throughout its growing season. Skip mulching to prevent root rot. Harvest leaves and seeds when needed.
Light
6/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-9
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Vine, Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
5–5.5
Seasonal calendar
Northern hemisphere · UTC month is September
winterspringsummerautumnwinter
BloomJFMAMJJASOND
For first-time growers
How to grow Hairy Tare for the first time
8steps
Start with Hairy Tare as a simple annual plant, focusing on basic care and harvesting.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a container or garden bed, potting soil if using containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH of 5-5.5. Ensure containers have drainage holes if using them.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep, spacing them about 30 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they are strong enough to handle.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide support for climbing vines if needed.
- 6
Ongoing care
Continue regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back vines to encourage bushier growth and prevent them from sprawling. Harvest leaves and seeds when needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, not providing support for climbing vines, neglecting regular fertilization.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The hairy tare plant is edible and can be consumed in various forms. Its leaves and seeds are commonly eaten raw or cooked. The seeds can also be dried for later use. SKIP
Other uses:Dynamic accumulatorNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe14 regions
native (14)AlbaniaAustriaBelgiumBulgariaCyprusDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreecePortugalRussiaSpainUnited Kingdom
Asia4 regions
native (4)AfghanistanBangladeshChinaIndia
Africa4 regions
native (4)AlgeriaEgyptEritreaEthiopia
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Baltic States, East Himalaya, Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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