About
The common vetch is a downy, scrambling annual that reaches 75cm in height. Leaves are composed of pairs of opposite leaflets and end with a tendril. Cerise flowers, 2-3cm across, in typical pea shape form, are borne singly or in pairs from April to September.
About the genus
Vicia are annuals, herbaceous perennials or climbers; leaves may be simple or divided into many small leaflets, often ending in a tendril. The yellow, purple, white or pink, pea-like flowers are produced in small clusters on the stem or in larger, upright sprays
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationOccurs naturally in well-drained locations, especially sandy soils. As a legume, this vetch is used as a green manure to fix nitrogen in the soil. See our video How to grow and sow green manure for advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. Scarification may be necessary to break dormancy
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free