Bitter Vetch

Vicia ervilia, Fabaceae

Zones

3–8

Layer

Ground Cover

Lifespan

Annual

Growth

Fast

Guild Roles

Nitrogen FixerGround CoverMulch Maker

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)Partial Shade (tolerated)

Water

Low (established)Moderate (seedling)

Soil pH

6 – 8

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Golden JaboticabaMyrciaria aureana

Nitrogen FixationBeneficial Insect Habitat

Wild BuckwheatPolygonum convolvulus

Nitrogen Fixation

Purple False BromeBrachypodium distachyon

Nitrogen FixationPollinator Sharing

Antagonistic Plants

One-flowered VetchVicia monantha

Congeneric legumes that may exhibit allelopathic interference and root competition

Hungarian VetchVicia pannonica

Related vetch species that compete for rhizobial partners and soil resources

Groundplum MilkvetchAstragalus complanatus

Both legumes may compete for similar rhizobial partners and soil resources

Uses

Functions

Nitrogen FixationSoil ImprovementWinter CoverErosion ControlGreen Manure

Common Questions

What zones does Bitter Vetch grow in?

Bitter Vetch grows in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 8.

Is Bitter Vetch a nitrogen fixer?

Yes, Bitter Vetch is a nitrogen fixer and can help provide nitrogen to neighboring plants in a guild or polyculture.

What are good companion plants for Bitter Vetch?

Good companions for Bitter Vetch include Golden Jaboticaba, Wild Buckwheat, Purple False Brome.

Design guilds with Bitter Vetch and see companion relationships visually.

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