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Description
Vicia Sativa Subsp. Nigra, commonly known as Black Vetch or Common Vetch, is a plant species belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is an annual or biennial plant that grows up to 1 meter in height. This plant has a branched stem and compound leaves, with 8-12 pairs of leaflets. It produces small, purple flowers that bloom from May to September, followed by pods that contain 5-10 seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Vicia |
| Species | Vicia sativa |
| Subspecies | Nigra |
Appearance
The Black Vetch plant has a bushy appearance with a height of up to 1 meter. The stem is slender and branched, and it is covered with finely haired foliage, which gives it a slightly rough texture. The leaves are compound, with 8-12 pairs of leaflets that are ovate or lanceolate in shape. The leaflets are about 1-3 cm long and 0.5-1.5 cm wide. From May to September, the plant produces small, purple flowers that are clustered in groups of 2-6. These flowers measure about 1 cm in length and have a typical pea-like shape. After flowering, the plant produces pods that contain 5-10 seeds.
Care Guide
Black Vetch is an easy plant to grow and care for. Here are some guidelines for its growth:Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done regularly, especially during the growing season. Fertilization: The plant does not require heavy fertilization. Applying a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth. Soil: Black Vetch grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or clay soil. Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not flower as abundantly. Hardiness Zones: Black Vetch is a hardy plant that can grow in USDA zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Black Vetch is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, slugs, and snails. These pests can be controlled with insecticides or by using natural predators such as ladybugs.
Habitat
Black Vetch is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It can grow in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and waste areas. It is often used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility and prevent erosion.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Black Vetch be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Black Vetch can be grown in containers. Make sure the container is at least 30 cm deep and has good drainage.Q: How often should Black Vetch be fertilized?
A: Black Vetch does not require heavy fertilization. Applying a balanced fertilizer once in the spring is sufficient.Q: Can Black Vetch tolerate drought?
A: Black Vetch prefers moist soil and may not tolerate drought conditions for extended periods.Q: Is Black Vetch toxic to animals?
A: Black Vetch is not toxic to animals and is often used as a forage crop for livestock.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Black Vetch:
- Vicia faba (Broad Bean)
- Vicia cracca (Tufted Vetch)
- Vicia villosa (Hairy Vetch)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Vicia sativa subsp. nigra
- RHS: Vicia sativa subsp. nigra
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Vicia sativa subsp. nigra
