Vicia sativa

Vetch is a weedy, annual winter wildflower in the bean family.  It is commonly used as a cover crop because it can fix nitrogen in the soil.  This semi-erect climbing plant, uses adjacent vegetation for support.  

Its natural habitats include cropland, fallow fields, weedy meadows, roadsides, along railroads and other waste areas.  It is occasionally planted as a food source for farm animals including cattle, horses, and sheep.  Wild animals that feed on the foliage include deer, rabbits, several varieties of caterpillars and butterflies, as well as some game birds.  When planted as a forage plant for animals, it is beneficial to have adjacent companion plants for support of this climbing vine-like plant. Without support, it can be subject to rot as it spreads along the ground.

It is also grown as a cover crop in vineyards and orchards to assist in the suppression of spring weeds.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Its aggressive self seeding can cause this weedy plant to spread quickly.