Also known as Cultivated Lentil · عدس،
Lentil (Vicia lens) is an annual legume, cultivated for its edible lens-shaped seeds, a staple food source globally known for its nutritional benefits and versatility in
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Lentils require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and pod development.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C. Frost can damage young plants.
Low Feed
25% intensity
As legumes, they fix nitrogen. Minimal fertilization needed, avoid high nitrogen.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Lentils prefer consistent moisture, especially during germination and flowering. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly as the plants mature and pods begin to form to prevent splitting.
Pruning is typically not necessary for lentil plants. Their growth habit is generally self-contained.
If plants become excessively crowded or leggy, a light thinning can improve air circulation and light penetration, but this is rarely required for optimal yield.
Lentils are propagated by seed. Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost, when the soil has warmed. Plant seeds about 2-3 cm deep and 10-15 cm apart in rows spaced 30-45 cm apart.
Ensure good drainage for successful germination.
Lentils are typically grown as an annual field crop and are not transplanted or repotted. Seeds are sown directly into the soil where the plants will grow to maturity and be harvested.
Therefore, repotting is not applicable to lentil cultivation.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Lentil (Vicia lens)
Where Lentil (Vicia lens) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Vicia |
| Species | Vicia lens |
Similar in genus Vicia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
