Plant guide

Bush vetch.

Vicia sepium

Pronounced VISH-ee-uh SEE-pee-um

Also known as Bush Vetch, Hedge vetch

The bush vetch is a lovely perennial climber that often pops up in hedgerows and meadows. It's a member of the pea family and adds a nice touch of color to wilder garden spots. You'll find it's quite hardy and adaptable to various conditions.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Herbaceous perennial
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Indoor light: Bright indirect
Water: Every 3 to 7 days
Mature size: 3 to 4 feet
Growth rate: Fast

Care

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged for the best results. Watch for aphids on the tender new growth during the spring. It appreciates a bit of support to climb if you want to keep it tidy.

Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer during the active growing season.
Pruning: Trim back dead or overgrown stems to encourage fresh growth.
Repotting: Move to a slightly larger container if the roots become crowded.
Soil: Well draining loamy soil
Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.5

Safety

Pets: This plant is generally considered non toxic to cats and dogs.

How to identify it

Pinnate leaves with tendrils
Dull purple pea like flowers
Hairy stems and foliage
Small black seed pods
Climbing growth habit

Science

Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Vicia
Order: Fabales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Is your bush vetch looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.