Crown Vetch
Coronilla varia
Last reviewed: June 2026
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
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.
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 Crown Vetch fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.