American Vetch (Vicia americana)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Vicia americana is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young shoots - cooked. The tender seeds are eaten by the N. American Indians. Both the mature seeds and the immature seedpods can be used. The pod is about 3cm long and contains 4 - 7 seeds. — Young shoots - cooked.; The tender seeds are eaten by the N.; American Indians.; Both the mature seeds and the immature seedpods can be used.

Habitat & North American Range

Damp or gravelly slopes, thickets and meadows. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)