Securigera varia (synonym Coronilla varia), commonly known as crownvetch or purple crown vetch, is a low-growing legume vine. It is native to Africa, Asia and Europe and is commonly used throughout the United States and Canada for erosion control, roadside planting and soil rehabilitation. It has become an invasive species in many states of the US.
Crownvetch grows 1 to 2 feet tall and bears small clusters of 1/2-inch pink and white flowers from early summer to late fall. The variety Penngift produces mounds of pink flowers. Crownvetch is a tough, aggressive spreading plant that will crowd out its neighbors in a show garden but is well suited to a sunny bank, where it will grow for decades with little to no fertilizing, mowing, or weeding since the thick foliage prevents weeds from growing amid it. Its deep, tenacious, complex root system and thick, fern-like leaves provide excellent erosion control where it is used as a ground cover. However, this legume has a very long germination period of about 6 months and does not create full coverage until two or three years later.
Crown vetch is fairly resistant to disease and generally does not suffer from them. However, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment. These infestations are typically not severe. For care, this plant requires moderate maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to preserve a neat appearance and support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help encourage flowering. Crown vetch is well suited for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive gardening experience. It may need more care when grown indoors.
How to keep Coronilla Varia.
Light
Crown vetch strongly prefers plentiful sunlight like that of its native habitat. Adequate light is essential for its health and development. While it can tolerate lower light levels, steady exposure to ample light supports its vigorous growth. However, both insufficient and excessive light can lead to poor growth and health problems.
Water
Average water needs,watering when the top 3 cm (1,18") of soil has dried out. Can survive in dry soils; only water during very prolonged dry spells.
Temperature
Crown vetch grows best in temperatures between 41 and 95 ℉ (5 and 35 ℃). The plant is native to temperate areas and adapts to seasonal temperature shifts. In colder periods, it is advisable to protect the plant, for example by covering it, to avoid frost damage. During hotter periods, occasional misting can help prevent dehydration.
Fertilizer
A single spring application of fertilizer is generally adequate for Crown vetch, though repeated feedings can optimize growth. Apply fertilizer every month to a month and a half. Fertilization improves the look and function of the leaves, helping maintain even color and a healthy texture. It also promotes root development and nutrient uptake, supporting long-term plant health.
Toxicity
Coronilla varia contains the toxin beta-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA) primarily in the leaves and growing stems. Ruminants are able to detoxify the 3-NPA in their rumens, while simple stomached animals cannot. The 3-NPA once absorbed will cause methemoglobinemia.
Further reading →
The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Coronilla
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-10
- Mature Height
- 49 cm to 91 cm
- Mature Spread
- 91 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Pink, White, Lavender
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm to 5.08 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
- Native Area
- Turkey, Austria, Slovakia, Montenegro, Slovenia, Croatia, Belarus, Mali, Iraq, Germany, Estonia, Romania, Latvia, Belgium, Moldova, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Armenia, Poland, Greece, Lebanon, Lithuania, Norway, Syria, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Iran, Albania, Ireland, United Kingdom, Hungary, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan
Other names.
