Vicia Lutea

Description

Vicia Lutea, commonly known as Yellow Vetchling or Yellow Tare, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the legume family. It is an annual plant that grows up to 50 cm tall and produces yellow flowers from June to August. The plant is native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated as a forage crop for livestock. It is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Yellow Vetchling has a slender stem with alternate, pinnately compound leaves that are made up of 4-8 pairs of leaflets. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in clusters on long stalks. The plant produces a long, narrow seed pod that contains several small seeds. The root system is shallow and fibrous.

Care Guide

Yellow Vetchling is a hardy plant that is easy to grow and care for. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and a location with full sun to partial shade. The plant requires moderate watering and occasional fertilization during the growing season. It is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures and can be grown in hardiness zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Yellow Vetchling is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot and fungal infections in wet soil conditions. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent pest infestations.

Habitat

Yellow Vetchling is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It is often cultivated as a forage crop for livestock and for erosion control in areas with poor soil quality.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Yellow Vetchling an edible plant?

A: Yes, the young shoots and leaves of Yellow Vetchling are edible and can be cooked or eaten raw.

Q: Can Yellow Vetchling be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Yellow Vetchling can be grown in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provide adequate drainage.

Q: Does Yellow Vetchling attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Yellow Vetchling is a good source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.

Q: How long does it take for Yellow Vetchling to germinate?

A: Yellow Vetchling typically germinates within 7-14 days under optimal growing conditions.

Related Plants

• Vicia Sativa
• Vicia Faba
• Vicia Villosa
• Vicia Cracca

References

• “Vicia Lutea.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science, n.d. Web. 20 May 2021.
• Blamey, M., and C. Grey-Wilson. Wild Flowers of the Mediterranean. London: A & C Black, 2005. Print.
• “Yellow Vetchling.” Royal Horticultural Society. n.d. Web. 20 May 2021.