Carolina vetch (Vicia caroliniana)

Family: Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Vicia caroliniana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. The flowers are pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Vicia caroliniana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. The flowers are pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Acid soils on rocky slopes, rocky woods, ridges, streambanks. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)