Common Vetch (Vicia sativa) is a fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing annual wildflower widely used in wildflower mixes, green manures, and soil improvement schemes. A native legume species, it produces attractive violet-pink flowers and lush foliage that benefits pollinators and enhances soil health. It’s especially valued for its ability to thrive in disturbed soils, support insects, and suppress weeds through its ground-covering growth habit.

Ideal for farmland margins, conservation headlands, and species-rich meadows, Common Vetch is a vigorous and adaptable option for encouraging biodiversity while improving soil fertility.

Features & Benefits
Nitrogen-fixing annual that improves soil structure and fertility
Fast-growing, ideal for ground cover and weed suppression
Violet-pink flowers support bees and beneficial insects
Native UK species ideal for farmland and conservation use
Thrives in disturbed soils, grasslands, and verges

Latin Name:
Vicia sativa

Flowering Time:
May – August

Flowering Height:
30 – 60 cm

Life Cycle:
Annual

Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
9.5kg per acre (23.5kg per hectare)

Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)

How to Sow & Preparation
Choose Site: Best suited to open, well-drained soils in full sun.
Prepare Ground: Remove weeds and rake the area to a fine tilth.
Sow Seed: Evenly broadcast by hand or mechanical spreader.
Firm In: Lightly roll or tread in the seed to ensure soil contact.
Maintain: Water lightly in dry conditions. Mow at end of season before seed sets if not allowing self-seeding.

About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.

Latin Name | Vicia sativa

Flowering Time | May – August

Flowering Height | 30 – 60 cm

Life Cycle | Annual

Sowing Rate | 9.5 kg per acre (23.5 kg per hectare)

Sowing Period | Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)

Preferred Conditions | Open, well-drained soils in full sun

Pollinator Friendly | Yes

Minimum Order Quantity | 10g

Ideal For | Farmland margins, wild meadows, cover crops, conservation headlands