Hairy Vetch: Hairy Vetch
(Vicia villosa)
Native to Europe or western Asia, Vicia villosa is suited to cooler climates. It is a viny legume with long soft hairs on the stems and leaves. Branching stems/vines are prostrate (30-70 cm), but can climb (up to 1-2 m) the stalks of any neighboring plants. Stems support long hanging groups of flowers (purple to blue, or white) and pods (each with up to 8 dark-colored seeds). Leaves consist of pairs of leaflets.