Lentil
Lens culinaris
Botanical family: Fabaceae
Lens culinaris, a small annual Fabaceae grown for so long that its wild origin remains uncertain, for its seeds (green, blond, coral, beluga) harvested dry. Sources: Tela Botanica, “Lens culinaris Medik.” (Coste's flora); Plants For A Future, “Lens culinaris”.
Full sun
Light, drained, even poor and chalky; dislikes excess water and manure
Low, a frugal, drought-resistant plant
Fairly hardy annual (spring sowing)
Sown in autumn, protect over winter in your zone
Self-pollinating: the flower fertilises itself
One plant is enough for a crop
Role in permaculture
Good companions
Poor companions
Seasons & availability
Sown in spring, harvested dry in summer, in July and August, it keeps for years.
Available: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- La Ferme de Sainte Marthe, « Réussir la culture des lentilles » (fermedesaintemarthe.com/en/blogs/comment-reussir-la-culture-de/reussir-la-culture-des-lentilles)
- Garden Organic, « Lentils » (gardenorganic.org.uk/expert-advice/how-to-grow/growing-guides/vegetables-herbs-guides/how-to-grow-lentils)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
Eaten cooked; soaking and sufficient cooking improve digestibility.
Family behaviour: Legumes
In general, Legumes fix nitrogen from the air in most cases, thanks to the Rhizobium in their root nodules. They mainly enrich the soil for the following crops, as their residues decompose. Ideal in a rotation, before nitrogen-hungry plants such as nightshades.
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Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.