Purple Crown Vetch Coronilla varia

Crown vetch is a vining spreading wildflower native to Europe, Asia, and Africa in the Fabaceae (legume) family.  In the US and Canada, it has been used for erosion control in the 70's and 80's but has become invasive in many states including the mountains of NC, and is difficult to eradicate once established. It is toxic to humans and horses and other non-ruminants but is tolerated by cattle, goats, and sheep and is considered a good hay forage plant. The tough roots will spread quickly and cover an area preventing other plants from growing.  

The plant will grow 1-3 feet tall with pink and white flowers in 1-inch round clusters that are present from early summer through fall. The leaves are delicate-looking compound leaves with 12-25 leaflets. It spreads by rhizomes and seeds. It will tolerate part shade to full sun and will grow in nearly any type of well-drained soil. It needs basically no fertilizer and is drought-tolerant. 

This is an invasive plant. Please choose a native plant instead.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant insect or disease problems.  This plant has weedy tendencies and is invasive in some locations. Please consider planting native plants like Carolina vetch (Vicia carolina). This plant is considered invasive by the NC Invasive Plant Council.