
Hairy vetch (Vicia villosa)
Hairy vetch, also known as Winter vetch
Hairy vetch is commonly used as a cover crop and for animal forage due to its nitrogen-fixing properties. However, it's important to exercise caution because it's regarded as an invasive species in many regions, including several U.S. states and other countries. Always check local guidelines before planting.
Key Facts About Hairy vetch
Attributes of Hairy vetch
Lifespan
Annual, Biennial, Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
30 cm to 1.5 m
Spread
30 cm to 90 cm
Leaf Color
Green Blue
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Purple White Pink Blue Lavender
Scientific Classification of Hairy vetch
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Fabales
Family
Legume
Genus
Vetches
Species
Hairy vetch
Toxicity
Ingestion