Alpine Sweetvetch
Hedysarum alpinum
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Alpine Sweetvetch as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
8"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
ME, MI, MT, ND and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees
Alpine sweetvetch is a low-growing perennial wildflower that produces clusters of pink to purple pea-like flowers from June through August. This compact plant forms neat clumps and thrives in full sun with minimal watering once established. It's well-suited for rock gardens, naturalized areas, and low-maintenance landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Alpine Sweetvetch takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Wildflower appearance may look too informal for front yards
- Unknown winter appearance creates uncertainty
- Name includes 'vetch' which some associate with weeds
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various bee species during the summer blooming period. As a member of the legume family, it also helps fix nitrogen in the soil.
Common questions
- How much sun does Alpine Sweetvetch need?
- Alpine Sweetvetch grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Alpine Sweetvetch bloom?
- Alpine Sweetvetch blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Alpine Sweetvetch native?
- Alpine Sweetvetch (Hedysarum alpinum) is native to ME, MI, MT, ND and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Alpine Sweetvetch toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Alpine Sweetvetch as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Alpine Sweetvetch attract?
- Alpine Sweetvetch draws bees.
- Is Alpine Sweetvetch HOA-friendly?
- Alpine Sweetvetch takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Alpine Sweetvetch? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz