Tufted Vetch

A rather hairy perennial, tufted vetch has long grey-green leaves, that grow symmetrically along the trailing stem. It also has curled tendrils used to climb and grasp onto nearby hedges and bushes.

Uses

Sowing Rate Advice

1 gram per m2

Ideal Sowing Time

Tufted vetch can be sown in spring or autumn

Distinguishing characteristics

Seed
Seed Pods are 10-25cm long, with two to six seeds.

Flowering Plant
Flowers form along one side of the stem, showing off their long purple petals. They can usually be seen in dense clusters.

Additional Info

Flowers between June-August. Local names include Cat-peas, Bird Vetch, Cow-vetch and Fingers-and-thumbs.

Works well with

Tufted vetch is commonly seen in wildflower mixtures with Common Birdsfoot Trefoil, Hedge Bedstraw, Lady's Bedstraw, Meadow Buttercup and Meadow Vetchling.

You can find Tufted Vetch in the following mixtures

• Woodland Edge and Shady Area Mixture

History

Native wildflower, that has been common in the British Isles for centuries.