Kidney Vetch
Anthyllis vulneraria
Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae
What it is like
Anthyllis vulneraria is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It can fix Nitrogen. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Height (m): 0.2
Where it is found
Dry situations on sea cliffs, stony rocks and shingle, usually on shallow calcareous soils.
Most of Europe, including Britain, south and east to the Caucasus and N. Africa.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The dried flower heads are a tea substitute.
Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.
Medicine
Rating: 2
The roots leaves and flowers are antitussive, astringent, laxative and vulnerary. This plant is an ancient remedy for skin eruptions, slow-healing wounds, minor wounds, cuts and bruises, it is applied externally. Internally, it is used as a treatment for constipation and as a spring tonic. The plant can be used fresh in the growing season, or harvested when in flower and dried for later use.
Antiemetic: Prevents vomiting.
Antitussive: Prevents or relieves coughing.
Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.
Laxative: Stimulates bowel movements in a fairly gentle manner.
Vulnerary: Promotes the healing of wounds.
Other
Rating:
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
Nitrogen Fixer: Plants that fix nitrogen in the soil
How it is grown
Prefers a sunny position and an alkaline soil. Tolerates a pH in the range 4.8 to 8. Prefers a sandy loam. Thrives in poor soils. A rich food source for bees, butterflies and caterpillars. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in a cold frame. If there is sufficient seed it can be sown outdoors in situ. Pre-soak the seed for about 12 hrs or scarify the seed. It usually germinates in 1 -2 months at 10°c. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or autumn.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist