This naturalized perennial was introduced from Europe. It usually grows less than 2 feet tall. The compound leaves have 10-15 oval leaflets (A). The pea-like flowers are found in a flattened spherical cluster, usually lavender and white, but sometimes variable in color (B). The fruit is a 1-2 inch pod. Identified by a “crown” of lavender and white pea-like flowers.
Grows in fields and roadside edges, flowering in June and July. In Fontenelle Forest, common around the floodplain parking lot.
Crown vetch is very invasive and therefore unwanted in prairies. But it is often planted along roadsides to stabilize steep slopes. When in bloom, it makes an attractive ground cover where it is established. Also known as Axseed.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.