WILDFLOWER: Bush Vetch

Common name: Bush vetch

Latin name: vicia sepium

Bush vetch is a member of the pea family, which has tendrils that allow it to cling to and climb nearby structures or vegitation. It has pink or lilac flowers and flowers from April until November. It enjoys growing in grass thickets, so is perfect for long, unmown grass.

Bush vetch is a very important part of the ecosystem because its nectar is sought out by bees and other pollinators, and it comes into flower early, and stays in flower until later in the year. We know that our native bees prefer wildflowers native to Ireland, so it is particularly sought after by them. It also provides food for beetles, weevils and caterpillars.

Bush Vetch is also welcome with other plants and in particular in an orchard because it is a 'nitrogen-fixer'. This means that it takes nitrogen from the air and converts it into nitrogenous compounds, which fed the soil around other plants and trees.

At Esdale this can be spotted throughout our 'wild garden' and orchard area.