About
A medium-sized, deciduous shrub to about 2m tall from North America with broadly ovate, finely-toothed, mid-green leaves turning red-purple in autumn, and small, rounded clusters of white flowers in spring, followed by small, blue-black berries. An ornamental, wildlife-friendly shrub for a woodland garden or mixed border.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClimbing, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moist but well drained soil in a sun or semi-shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate from seed sown outdoors, in sun or light shade, where it is to grow
Pest resistanceGenerally pest free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free