Tufted Vetch (Vicia cracca) is a vigorous, scrambling perennial wildflower native to the UK. It produces striking clusters of bluish-purple pea-like flowers from early summer into autumn and is well known for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. Commonly found in meadows, woodland edges, roadsides, and rough grassland, Tufted Vetch is a valuable species for biodiversity enhancement and pollinator support.

This fast-growing species is ideal for wildflower meadows and grassland mixtures, adding height, colour, and texture to planting schemes. Its ability to climb over other vegetation makes it especially useful for naturalistic displays and wildlife corridors. Tufted Vetch is a favourite of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, and its root nodules help improve soil fertility over time.

Features & Benefits
Striking violet-blue flower spikes that attract pollinators
Climbing habit adds vertical interest and structural diversity
Fixes nitrogen, improving soil fertility naturally
Native UK perennial ideal for meadows and verges
Long flowering season from early summer into autumn

Latin Name:
Vicia cracca
Flowering Time:
June – September

Flowering Height:
60 – 100 cm

Life Cycle:
Perennial

Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
9.5kg per acre (23.5kg per hectare)

Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)

How to Sow & Preparation
Prepare a weed-free seedbed by removing all existing vegetation and lightly cultivating the soil.
Broadcast the seed evenly across the surface, by hand or spreader.
Firm the seed into the surface using a roller or by walking over it—do not bury deeply.
Tufted Vetch prefers full sun to partial shade and moderately fertile soils.
After sowing, keep the area moist during establishment.
Manage grass growth during the first year by mowing to reduce competition.

About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.

Latin Name | Vicia cracca

Flowering Time | June – September

Flowering Height | 60 – 100 cm

Life Cycle | Perennial

Sowing Rate | 9.5 kg per acre (23.5 kg per hectare)

Sowing Period | Spring or Autumn

Preferred Conditions | Moderately fertile soils, sun to partial shade

Pollinator Friendly | Yes

Minimum Order Quantity | 10g

Ideal For | Meadows, verges, grasslands, rewilding projects