Narrow-leaved Vetch
vicia angustifolia
Also known as: ["Narrow-leaved Vetchling","Small-seeded Vetch"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial legume with narrow leaves and small purple flowers, often found in grasslands and meadows.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Vicia |
| Botanical Name: | Vicia angustifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Loamy, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct sunlight indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly to avoid burning roots; apply after watering to prevent root shock; stop in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Plant seeds or cuttings.
- Maintain humidity.
- Provide warmth.
- Monitor for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright but indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rate for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds: 2–4 weeks to germinate; cuttings: 3–6 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; take cuttings from healthy stems; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape the plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out rootbound roots; place in a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to frost damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors; avoid placing near cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume Vicia angustifolia seeds or pods. The lectins present can irritate the digestive tract, leading to transient symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Vicia angustifolia seeds or pods can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of phytohaemagglutinin. Symptoms are typically temporary and resolve without long-term effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicVicia angustifolia contains phytohaemagglutinin, a lectin that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms upon ingestion. The toxic effects are generally mild but can be more pronounced in large quantities or with prolonged exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vicia angustifolia toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is it suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is easy to care for and requires low maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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