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Description
Securigera Varia, also known as Crown Vetch or Purple Crown Vetch, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the pea family. It is native to Europe, but it is widely distributed in North America, Africa, and Asia. This plant grows up to 1 meter tall and has a spread of 1-2 meters. It has pink to purple flowers that bloom from May to September and its seeds are enclosed in a pod.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Securigera |
Appearance
The leaves of Securigera Varia are compound, with up to 15 pairs of leaflets that are lance-shaped and have a slightly serrated edge. The stems are slender and hairy, and they trail along the ground. The flowers are arranged in clusters and have a distinctive shape, with a banner, wings, and keel. The color of the flowers ranges from pink to purple, and they are about 1 cm long. The seeds are contained in a pod that is about 2 cm long and slightly curved.
Care Guide
Securigera Varia is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires moderate maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your Crown Vetch thriving:
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.
- Fertilization: Crown Vetch does not require much fertilizer, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to give it a boost.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic or neutral. It can tolerate poor soil conditions, but it prefers loamy or sandy soil.
- Sunlight: Crown Vetch prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Securigera Varia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally suffer from the following:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause distorted growth and yellowing leaves. You can control them with insecticidal soap or by attracting natural predators like ladybugs.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing. You can control them with insecticidal soap or by increasing humidity around the plant.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. It is usually caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. You can prevent it by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
Securigera Varia is commonly found in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions. It is also used for erosion control and as a cover crop.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Crown Vetch invasive?
A: Yes, Crown Vetch can be invasive in some areas, especially in North America. It spreads rapidly and can outcompete native plants.
Q: Can Crown Vetch be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Crown Vetch has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as respiratory infections, digestive disorders, and skin conditions. However, it should not be used without consulting a healthcare professional.
Q: Can Crown Vetch be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Crown Vetch can be grown in containers, but it requires a large pot and regular watering.
Q: Does Crown Vetch attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Crown Vetch is a good attractant for bees and butterflies, as it provides nectar and pollen.
Related Plants
- Securigera securidaca
- Securigera varia ‘Alba’
- Securigera varia ‘Rosea’
- Securigera varia ‘Plena’
References
- “Securigera varia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed April 29, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j250
- “Crown Vetch.” Ontario’s Invading Species Awareness Program. Accessed April 29, 2021. https://www.invadingspecies.com/crown-vetch/
- “Securigera varia.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed April 29, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SEVA2
