Trailing Crown-vetch
Securigera varia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 24"–72" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
SC
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Trailing crown-vetch is a low-growing perennial vine that spreads widely across the ground, forming dense mats up to 6 feet wide. It produces clusters of pink and white pea-like flowers from late spring through summer and tolerates drought well once established. This aggressive spreader is often used for erosion control on slopes and naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Trailing Crown-vetch 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.
- Aggressive spreading habit can overtake other plants
- May appear weedy or unkempt to traditional landscaping preferences
- Difficult to contain once established
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and butterflies throughout the long blooming season from May through August. As a legume, it also fixes nitrogen in the soil, benefiting surrounding plants.
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 Trailing Crown-vetch fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.