Cassubian Vetch

vicia cassubica

Also known as: ["Cassubian Pea","Kaschubische Wicke"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Vicia Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A herbaceous annual plant in the pea family, known for its climbing habit and small, pea-like flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Vicia
Botanical Name: Vicia cassubica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; monitor for sunburn signs.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with organic matter for better structure.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates light frost but thrives in mild conditions.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity around cuttings; avoid direct sunlight.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or crossing branches.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.

Checklist

Use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes; avoid over-potting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning or late evening; ensure proper drainage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout for precise application to the root zone.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-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, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage in prolonged freezing conditions.

Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold drafts; mulch to insulate roots.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Vicia cassubica may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Vicia cassubica can be caused by water stress, root damage, or disease, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Vicia cassubica may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can affect Vicia cassubica due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume Vicia cassubica seeds or pods. The lectins and other compounds can irritate the digestive tract, leading to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea decreased appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian for guidance, as cats can be more sensitive to plant toxins.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Vicia cassubica seeds and pods may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation due to the presence of lectins and other phytochemicals. Symptoms are typically self-limiting but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant, especially seeds and pods. If ingestion occurs, monitor for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if they persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Vicia cassubica contains lectins and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. These compounds interfere with nutrient absorption and may lead to digestive upset.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming seeds and pods. Thoroughly cook any parts intended for consumption to reduce lectin content.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Vicia cassubica toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does Vicia cassubica attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: How difficult is it to grow Vicia cassubica?

A: It is easy to grow with low maintenance requirements.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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