Vetch
Vicia gigantea
Care
full sun, part shade
3–7ft tall
Prized
Northern California Coast Ranges and interior valleys from Mendocino County to Sacramento County, below 2000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Giant Vetch in full sun to part shade in a location that mimics its native habitat - it thrives in disturbed or recently disturbed soil. Space plants according to their mature height of 3 to 7 feet, giving them room to sprawl. Fall is an ideal planting time for this California native perennial, allowing roots to establish over winter.
After Planting
Giant Vetch is a perennial that will return year after year once established. Since this is a native plant adapted to California's conditions, monitor it during its first season and reduce supplemental water as it matures and establishes. Expect dormancy during dry months, which is normal behavior for this species.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California listed as Threatened
California Threatened; Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Larvae feed on Vicia species; multiple generations Apr-Sep in California
Larvae develop on native vetch species; primary host plant relationship
Adult nectar source and larval food plant; early spring emergence
Larvae feed on developing legume seeds; agricultural pest on Vicia crops
Larvae develop on native vetches; flight period May-Aug
Larvae feed on Vicia and related legumes; multiple broods May-Sep
Larvae feed on Vicia foliage; specialist on vetch species
Fungal pathogen; indicates plant presence to specialist arthropods