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Description
Vicia Sylvatica, commonly known as the wood vetch, is a flowering plant belonging to the legume family. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to North America as well. The plant is a perennial herb that can grow up to 1.2 meters in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Vicia |
Appearance
The wood vetch has alternate, pinnate leaves that have 4 to 12 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are oblong in shape and have pointed tips. The plant produces small, pale pink to purple flowers that bloom in May to July. The pea-like flowers form in clusters at the end of long, slender stems. The plant also produces leguminous seed pods that contain 1 to 3 seeds.
Care Guide
The wood vetch is an easy plant to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions.
Water
The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, but do not overwater.
Fertilization
The wood vetch does not require much fertilization but can benefit from an application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil
The plant can grow in a range of soil types, but prefers loamy, well-drained soil.
Sunlight
The wood vetch prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The wood vetch is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
The wood vetch is commonly found in woodlands, hedgerows, and meadows. It can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions, making it a versatile plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the wood vetch a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces nectar that attracts bees and butterflies.
Q: Can the wood vetch be grown as a ground cover?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown as a ground cover due to its spreading growth habit.
Q: Does the wood vetch need to be pruned?
A: No, the plant does not require pruning. However, removing spent flowers can encourage new growth.
Q: Can the wood vetch be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering.
Related Plants
- Vicia Cracca
- Vicia Faba
- Vicia Sativa
References
- “Vicia Sylvatica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c398.
- “Wood Vetch.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/50158/Vicia-Sylvatica/Details.
- “Vicia Sylvatica.” Plants For a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Vicia+sylvatica.
