Vicia caroliniana, commonly known as Carolina Vetch, is a native perennial vine found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and full sun to partial shade.
This plant features compound leaves with oval leaflets and clusters of small, purple to violet, pea-like flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. Carolina Vetch is a legume, meaning it fixes nitrogen in the soil, benefiting surrounding plants. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Vicia caroliniana is a great addition to wildflower gardens and natural landscapes, offering beautiful blooms, ecological benefits, and support for pollinators while improving soil health.
Vicia caroliniana, commonly known as Carolina Vetch, is a native perennial vine found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and full sun to partial shade.
This plant features compound leaves with oval leaflets and clusters of small, purple to violet, pea-like flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. Carolina Vetch is a legume, meaning it fixes nitrogen in the soil, benefiting surrounding plants. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Vicia caroliniana is a great addition to wildflower gardens and natural landscapes, offering beautiful blooms, ecological benefits, and support for pollinators while improving soil health.
Bloom: spring
Habitats: ridges; rocky slopes; rocky woods; streambanks
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to slightly dry
Plant type (height): herbaceous vine (up to 2 feet)
Requirements: full sun to light shade
Soil: clay; loam; sand
