Tufted Vetch (Vicia cracca) is a perennial climbing herbaceous plant in the legume family, Fabaceae. It is characterized by its sprawling growth habit, reaching up to 2 meters in length, and its vibrant purple-blue flowers that bloom in dense clusters. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Tufted Vetch is valued for its nitrogen-fixing ability, which enriches soil fertility naturally. It plays a crucial role in improving soil structure and preventing erosion. As a cover crop and green manure, it enhances biodiversity and provides habitat for beneficial insects. In food forests, it functions as a ground cover layer, supporting taller plants by improving soil health. Historically, it has been used in traditional farming systems across Europe and Asia for its soil-enhancing properties. Guild companions include plants like comfrey and yarrow, which further enhance soil fertility and attract pollinators.
Growing Details
Tufted Vetch thrives in well-drained soils with moderate moisture. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. To prepare the soil, incorporate organic matter such as compost to enhance fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like clover and alfalfa can be grown alongside to further boost nitrogen levels. Common mistakes include overwatering and allowing the plant to become in
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Vicia cracca</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and Asia, widely naturalized
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 90 days
Harvest:
middle
of July for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of April
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The young shoots and leaves of Tufted Vetch can be consumed raw or cooked, though they are not widely used in culinary applications due to their low palatability. They are best harvested in early spring when they are tender.
Medicinal Rating:
(0/5)
medicinal uses:
health concerns: Consumption of large quantities of Tufted Vetch seeds can be toxic to humans and animals due to the presence of certain compounds such as cyanogenic glycosides.
other uses: Tufted Vetch is used as a green manure and cover crop. It is also beneficial for soil erosion control and as a forage plant for livestock.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Vicia cracca
common names: Cow Vetch; Bird Vetch; Blue Vetch
family: Fabaceae
sub family: Faboideae
tribe: Vicieae
sub tribe:
genus: Vicia
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 0.5 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / -10ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 2.0 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Tufted Vetch thrives in well-drained soils with moderate moisture. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. To prepare the soil, incorporate organic matter such as compost to enhance fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like clover and alfalfa can be grown alongside to further boost nitrogen levels. Common mistakes include overwatering and allowing the plant to become in
Potential Disturbances: Tufted Vetch is generally resilient but can be affected by aphids and other sap-sucking insects. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to manage aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel pests. Organic neem oil sprays can be used as a last resort for severe infestations.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
Animals Interacting With This Plant
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