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Crown Vetch

Coronilla varia

Last reviewed: June 2026

Crown Vetch (Coronilla varia)
Photo: (c) Sandy Wolkenberg, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Sandy Wolkenberg

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–24" H × 24"–60" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AL, CA, CO, ID and 13 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Sierra NevadaCentral Basin and Range

Crown vetch is a low-growing, spreading perennial vine that produces clusters of pink and white pea-like flowers throughout summer. This drought-tolerant groundcover forms dense mats and was historically used for erosion control on slopes and disturbed areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Crown Vetch takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Aggressive spreader that can escape cultivation
  • Often considered weedy or invasive
  • Can look untidy when not flowering

Wildlife value

The summer blooms attract bees and butterflies, providing nectar during the peak growing season.

Common questions

How much sun does Crown Vetch need?
Crown Vetch grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Crown Vetch bloom?
Crown Vetch blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Crown Vetch native?
Crown Vetch (Coronilla varia) is native to AL, CA, CO, ID and 13 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Crown Vetch toxic to cats?
Yes. Crown Vetch is listed as toxic to cats by the Cornell University Poisonous Plants Database (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
What pollinators does Crown Vetch attract?
Crown Vetch draws bees and butterflies.
Is Crown Vetch HOA-friendly?
Crown Vetch 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 Crown Vetch? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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