American Vetch
Vicia americana

Other Common Names: Stiffleaf Vetch
Bloom Color: Ranges from blue to purple, rarely all white
Bloom period:  Late Spring

Wildlife Value Score: 4
Seed Availability:  3
Establishment Frequency: 
Growth Form:  Rhizomatous

  American Vetch has good forage value.  It does not do well in heavily grazed pastures.  It is a nitrogen fixing plant which may be of use by associated plants. This native plant is grazed by deer and provides food to game birds.  The leaves were applied to spider bites. Tea made from the entire plant was used as an eywash, and the roots were kept in the pocket as a good-luck charm when gambling.