Carolina vetch (Vicia caroliniana)

Also known as: Carolina vetch

Tephrosia virginiana, also known as Goat's Rue or Catgut, is a perennial flowering plant native to the eastern United States. As a member of the Legume family, it features compound leaves and attractive, pollinator-friendly flowers. This plant bears a resemblance to a smaller, herbaceous version of the Black locust tree.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Carolina vetch

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb, Vine

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

8 mm to 1.3 cm

Flower Color

White Purple

Images of Carolina vetch

Quickly Identify Carolina vetch

Pinnately compound leaves with entire margins and hairy undersides for tactile identification.

Hollow, hairy stems with subtle wing-like features, approximately 0.1-0.2 inches (2.5-5 mm) in diameter.

Light pinkish-white pea-like flowers, 0.4 to 0.5 inches (10 to 13 mm) long, blooming in spring.

Distinct legume flower structure with banner, wings, and keel arrangement in clustered display.

Leaves are bright green on top, paler underneath, with clear vein patterns and alternate arrangement.

Scientific Classification of Carolina vetch

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fabales

Family

Legume

Genus

Vetches

Species

Carolina vetch

Planting and Growing of Carolina vetch

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

Once a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Carolina vetch?

When watering Vicia caroliniana, ensure to provide approximately 250 milliliters per session. The key is to moisten the top few inches of soil without making it soggy, as this species favors well-drained environments.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Carolina vetch? ›

What should I do if my Carolina vetch is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Carolina vetch? ›

How to save an overwatered Carolina vetch? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Carolina vetch?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 3 to 6 hours

The ideal light range for Vicia caroliniana is partial sun to full shade, providing just enough light for photosynthesis without overwhelming the plant, which supports strong growth and flowering.

What are the best lighting conditions for Vicia caroliniana? ›

How can you recreate ideal lighting conditions for Vicia caroliniana indoors? ›

What are the benefits of providing ideal lighting to Vicia caroliniana? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Carolina vetch?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Vicia caroliniana is between 60°F and 75°F. This range allows the plant to grow efficiently, ensuring proper metabolic functions and photosynthesis. Keeping temperatures within this range can facilitate robust plant health and vitality.

What Soil is Best for Carolina vetch?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Sandy soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Vicia caroliniana thrives in well-draining soil, which prevents waterlogging and root rot. Such soil allows for optimal oxygenation, promoting healthy root growth and nutrient uptake. This plant benefits from moderately fertile soils that provide essential nutrients without overwhelming the plant. Balanced fertility levels contribute to robust growth and vibrant foliage. Preferring a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5, Vicia caroliniana grows best in soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. This pH level enhances nutrient availability and prevents toxic conditions.

How to Fertilize Carolina vetch?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Vicia caroliniana, it is best to use a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer. For liquid fertilizer, dilute it to half strength, applying about 100ml per plant each time. For slow-release fertilizers, use about 50 grams per plant annually. Monitor the plant's growth and adjust as necessary.

How to Prune Carolina vetch?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Inspect the plant for any dead or damaged stems and leaves. These areas should be the first to go as they can hinder overall plant health. Cut back any stems that extend beyond the desired shape of your Vicia caroliniana. This ensures a tidy appearance while encouraging bushier growth. To promote new growth, trim back stems just above a leaf node. This will stimulate the plant to direct energy to new shoots, enhancing overall plant vigor. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Carolina vetch plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early spring

Collect seeds from mature Vicia caroliniana pods. Allow them to dry completely, ensuring they are free from moisture to prevent mold. Soak the seeds in water overnight to improve germination rates.

Select healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings, preferably from the current year's growth. Remove the lower leaves and make an angled cut just below a node before planting them in a moist medium.

For both seeds and cuttings, plant them in a well-draining mix and keep them in a sheltered, warm area away from direct sunlight. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging the medium.

How to Repot Carolina vetch plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2 years

Vicia caroliniana should be repotted when its roots begin to outgrow its current pot, typically visible as roots protruding from the drainage holes. Another sign is when water takes too long to drain from the pot, indicating poor soil health or compaction. Ideally, repotting should occur during early spring or autumn when the plant is not in its active bloom cycle, ensuring minimal stress.

Select a pot that is about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. This size allows the roots ample space to grow without the risk of waterlogging due to excessive soil volume. Choose a pot with adequate drainage holes to facilitate optimal water flow and prevent root rot, promoting a healthy root system.

Opt for a well-draining loamy soil mix enriched with organic matter. A balanced mix helps retain essential moisture without becoming waterlogged, thus preventing root rot. Incorporating organic matter ensures a steady supply of nutrients, promoting robust growth and vibrant foliage.