This plant is a very efficient climber and will scramble up living plants including nearby grasses as well as inanimate objects to get into the light. It is a plant of high summer and I often see it growing with Lathyrus pratensis (Meadow vetchling) the bright yellow of which makes and attractive contrast.

Vicia cracca is one of the commonest vetches in the British Isles and is found throughout England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and on the outer islands including Shetland

LHS: Spurn Point, Yorkshire, 5th July 2004 RHS: Frodsham marshes, Chehsire 14th June 2005

Added on November 26th 2004, updated 22nd February 2012