Lens
(the classical name). Lentils. ORD. Leguminosae. A small genus (probably of not more than two or three species) of hardy, dwarf, erect or sub-scandent annuals, natives of the Mediterranean region, one of them (L. esculenta) being extensively cultivated in Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and the warmer parts of Asia. It is not much cultivated in this country, but will succeed, if desired, in a light soil and warm situation. Seeds should be sown, at the beginning of April, in drills about 1 1/2ft. apart, and the plants allowed to grow on the ground. When the stems turn yellow, the plants should be pulled up, and left to dry in the sun. Seeds may be stored in the husks when ready, and will keep good a long time in a dry place.
L. esculenta (edible). fl. pale blue, small, in long-stalked, few-flowered, racemose clusters. Summer. l. usually terminating in a long, simple or slightly-branched tendril; leaflets (about six pairs) narrowly lanceolate-oblong. h. 6in. to 18in. Native country unknown. One of the most anciently cultivated plants; it was well-known to the Egyptians and Persians, and has been grown in Europe since the days of the Roman Empire. The seeds (lentils) are highly valued as food, being amongst the most nutritious of vegetable substances.