Hairy vetch (Vicia hirsuta)
Care, watering, light and tips for Hairy vetch on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 5 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Hairy vetch
Vicia hirsuta, commonly known as hairy tare or tiny vetch, is a small annual legume characterized by its delicate white to pale blue flowers and hairy pods. It's a low-growing, sprawling or climbing plant, ideal for ground cover in naturalistic gardens or as part of a wild meadow, enriching the soil with nitrogen.
Native range
Europe, Asia, and North Africa
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and adapts to a wide range of soils, though it thrives best in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings, as it tolerates some drought. This is a low-maintenance plant that does not require additional fertilization in moderately rich soils. Avoid waterlogging, as it is susceptible to root rot.
How to save a dying Hairy vetch
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft stems, no flowering or pods.
- First aid
- Check drainage, reduce watering if waterlogged, move to partial shade if strong direct sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering or prolonged waterlogging; also extreme drought during flowering.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. Remove damaged parts and adjust watering and light.