Tare (legume)

Tare refers to several species of vetch, specifically members of the Vicia genus, that are cultivated for animal feed or used as green manure. The term most commonly refers to Vicia sativa, also known as common vetch.

Botanical Information:

Tares are annual herbaceous plants belonging to the Fabaceae (legume) family. They are characterized by their weak, climbing or trailing stems, pinnate leaves with tendrils, and pea-like flowers. The flowers are typically purple, pink, or white. The fruits are pods containing several seeds.

Cultivation and Uses:

Tares are grown as a fodder crop for livestock, either grazed directly or harvested as hay or silage. They are valued for their high protein content. They are also used as a green manure crop, as they fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility.

Species Commonly Referred to as Tare:

• Vicia sativa (Common Vetch): The most widely cultivated tare species.
• Vicia hirsuta (Hairy Tare): A smaller, less commonly cultivated species.
• Vicia tetrasperma (Four-seeded Vetch): Another less common species, often found as a weed.

Distinguishing from other Legumes:

While the term "tare" often specifically refers to Vicia species, it is important to note that other legumes can sometimes be mistakenly referred to as tares. Accurate identification is important when selecting species for cultivation or managing weeds.

Weed Status:

In some regions, certain tare species, particularly Vicia hirsuta and Vicia tetrasperma, can be considered weeds in arable land. They can compete with crops for resources and reduce yields.