Alpine Sweetvetch
Hedysarum alpinum
Last reviewed: June 2026
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.
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.
Does Alpine Sweetvetch fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.