Vicia cracca aka Bird Vetch
Taxonomy ID: 14543
Vicia cracca, also known as tufted vetch, cow vetch, bird vetch, blue vetch, and boreal vetch, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the pea and bean family Fabaceae. Originally native to Europe and Asia, it has been introduced to other continents, including North America, where it is considered a common weed and often found in disturbed habitats such as old fields and roadside ditches. This versatile plant can grow on grasslands, slopes, shrubbery, and forest edges, but prefers well-draining soil and direct light. It can reach up to 120 cm tall and has weak, clingy, ribbed stems that are usually branchy. The species is known for its varied pollination, leaflet size and shape, and crown color. To control common vetch, post-emergent two-, three-, and four-way broadleaf herbicides containing triclopyr, clopyralid, or fluroxypyr products are effective. However, if you have a rare tufted vetch houseplant, regular watering and organic fertilization throughout the peak growing season are necessary for its survival.
Common names
Bird Vetch, Tufted Vetch, Cow Vetch, Blue Vetch, Boreal VetchMore information about Bird Vetch
How difficult is it to take care of Bird Vetch
Caring for Bird Vetch is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
What is the region of origin of Bird Vetch
Bird Vetch’s native range is Northern Europe, including Britain, to Japan in northern Asia.
What are the water needs for Bird Vetch
Bird Vetch should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Bird Vetch
Bird Vetch loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Bird Vetch
Bird Vetch requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Tufted Vetch is always in the right place to thrive.
Is Bird Vetch toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
About Ploi
Ploi is a top-rated plant care app (4.99 stars) that offers intelligent watering reminders. Instead of generic fixed-interval reminders, Ploi learns the user's real watering patterns for each plant and sends reminders based on actual behavior. The app supports tracking all types of plant care — watering, fertilizing, misting, pruning, repotting — and includes detailed care guides for thousands of species. Available free on iOS, Android and web.
