Bird vetch (Vicia cracca)

Bird vetch

Also known as: Blue vetch, Boreal vetch

Bird vetch (Vicia cracca) is a flowering species of vetch native to Europe and Asia. In North America, bird vetch is considered an invasive species and a weed. In these environments, the flowering plant often grows in industrial disturbed environments like oil fields.

Scientific classification

Species

Bird vetch (Vicia cracca)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

40 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Bird vetch

Distribution of Bird vetch

Distribution Map

Bird vetch is a plant native to temperate regions in both Europe and Asia, with a broad distribution extending to edges of the Arctic. It is naturally found in varied climates, encompassing Mediterranean habitats to subarctic zones. Bird vetch has been introduced to other continents such as Africa, the Americas, and Oceania where it has established populations.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Grassy and bushy places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

I Cling To Thee, Shyness

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Toxicity

Bird vetch seeds release cyanide gas when exposed to stomach acid, causing fatal breathing and heart issues or mild symptoms like vomiting and muscle weakness. Children, cognitively impaired people, cats, and dogs are at risk through ingestion. Immediate veterinary or medical attention is necessary if ingestion occurs.

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Weed Control

Bird vetch is a native plant in Asia and Europe, but it has been introduced in the United States where it is considered as an invasive weed. While it may be beneficial to butterflies and other pollinators, bird vetch is a rapid grower and can quickly take over an area. The climbing stems can grow up to 1.2 m in length, often choking out existing plants. If left to grow in yards and gardens, it can take down fences and shingles. The vine spreads by seeds released as the flowers wilt. New growth from the seeds can make the weed invasive. If removed before blooming, it can be kept under control.

How to Control It

The best season to remove bird vetch is late spring or early summer, which is when the plant has fully germinated but still hasn't produced seeds yet - you definitely want to catch and remove it before it sets seed.

Pulling by Hand: This method is simple and straightforward. Grab the plant at its base and pull upwards to eliminate as much root as possible. Remember, even a small piece of root can regenerate into a new plant.
Smothering: Smother the ground where bird vetch is growing with several layers of newspaper or cardboard, then cover it with a thick layer of mulch. This blocks the plant from sunlight and oxygen, effectively killing them.
Plant competition: Choose ground cover plants that can compete with bird vetch for resources. Dense, fast-growing species tend to be best and can help suppress bird vetch growth.
Solarization: This technique requires you to cover the infested area with a clear plastic tarp during the heat of summer. This essentially cooks the bird vetch plants and their seeds under the tarp, killing them.
Biological control: Use specific insects or animals that feed on bird vetch, like the vetch weevil, to help control its spread.

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Care Guide for Bird vetch

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Native to temperate regions, bird vetch prefers moderate moisture and tolerates brief dryness. Weekly watering maintains optimal health, allowing soil to dry slightly between sessions. Thriving in well-draining soils, bird vetch is adaptable to natural rainfall fluctuations common in outdoor meadows and fields.

Fertilize: Bird vetch is a nitrogen-fixing plant, largely self-fertile. Applying phosphorous, especially through high phosphorous fertilizers like triple superphosphate, significantly boosts its growth and nutrient absorption. Extra lime can optimize growth, but avoid over-liming to prevent harm.

Pruning: Bird vetch is a vigorous climber that can smother surrounding plants if unchecked. To prevent unwanted spread and maintain a compact form, regular pruning is essential.

Propagation: Bird vetch propagates easily through herbaceous cuttings in spring and summer. Success is indicated by new roots and leaves. To enhance propagation, keep cuttings moist and ensure they receive adequate light.

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