Common Vetch -vicia sativa – grows best within dry grassland and along hedgerows. Unlike many other wildflowers it will establish quite well on fertile soils where there is plenty of sunlight. Common Vetch is a rambling species with a soft mauve flower that appears from April to September. Plants typically grow from 6 inches to as much as 4 feet in height and draw a wide range of insects such as Bees, and Butterflies. Common Vetch looks best growing with other meadow plants that flower in early to mid summer such as Oxeye daisies, Black Knapweed, Meadow Cranesbills and Field Scabrous.
COMMON VETCH Seeds
How to grow Common Vetch Seeds
Common Vetch seeds are best sown directly outside into grassland, where they are to flower, Germination can be improved by lightly rubbing the seeds between 2 sheets of sandpaper. This is known as scarification and helps break down the seed’s tough outer shell. Common Vetch seeds usually germinate readily..type - annual,
colour - Purple, height - 50 to 75cms,
flowering months - April, May, June, July, August, September, habitat - Semi-Shade (Orchards, Hedgerow, Banks, Open Woodland), Dry Grassland (clay, loam), Very dry Sandy Soil, Bare, Open Ground (eg Arable field margins, disturbed, waste ground),
Attracts Bees and Butterflies