Hairy Vetch (Vicia villosa)

(c) Eleftherios Katsillis, some rights reserved (CC BY)

iNaturalist

Hairy Vetch Plant Care

Vicia villosa Roth

Native to the Mediterranean region, this plant's most distinctive feature is its dense clusters of small, purple flowers that contrast beautifully against its deep green, hairy leaves. Plant collectors are drawn to Vicia villosa for its ability to attract beneficial pollinators to the garden due to its vibrant blooms.

🌳Trees🌿Shrubs🍃Climbers & Vines
Water

Every 0 days

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Temp

0–0°F

Humidity

0–0%

What Is the Hairy Vetch?

Hairy Vetch (Vicia villosa) belongs to the Fabaceae family within the Vicia genus. Hairy Vetch is native to some of Europe and western Asia. Hairy Vetch is also known as Villous Vetch.

Hairy Vetch displays a vining, climbing growth habit, reaching up to 0 inches tall with a spread of approximately 0 inches. Hairy Vetch produces small pea-like flowers in various colors.

Leaf size: approximately 0 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Hairy Vetch?

Vicia villosa requires watering every 0 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 0 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Hairy Vetch Need?

Hairy Vetch thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 0–0 lux. Avoid placing Hairy Vetch in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Full sun to partial shade

0–0 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Hairy Vetch Prefer?

Vicia villosa grows best at temperatures between 0°F and 0°F. Hairy Vetch prefers humidity levels of 0–0%.

Temperature

0–0°F

Humidity

0–0%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Hairy Vetch?

Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Hairy Vetch to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Hairy Vetch?

Repot every 1-2 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Hairy Vetch?

Hairy Vetch can be propagated through seeds, division. Similar propagation techniques also apply to fava bean plant care, which shares the same genus.

Fertilizing

Every 0 months

During the growing season

Is the Hairy Vetch Toxic to Pets and Children?

Non-Toxic

Non-toxic to humans and pets

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Hairy Vetch?

Hairy Vetch is susceptible to aphids, leafhoppers, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Hairy Vetch Need?

Hairy Vetch grows outdoors in USDA Zone 3a – 9b. Native to some of Europe and western Asia, Hairy Vetch is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Hairy Vetch as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 3a – 9b

Keep exploring plants

Hairy Vetch is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Vicia genus — compare its care with other Vicia species on PlantoScan.

Hairy Vetch tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.

More Vicia Species

Other Vicia species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:

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