Crown Vetch

Coronilla varia

Physical Characteristics

Coronilla varia is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to November, and the seeds ripen from August to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Europe. Naturalized in Britain[17].

Habitats

Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Oil Edible Uses: Oil None known

Medicinal Uses

Cardiotonic Emetic Salve The whole plant, used either fresh or dried is a cardiotonic[9, 13]. It should be used with extreme caution, see the notes above on toxicity[9]. A decoction of the bark has been used as an emetic[257]. The crushed plant has been rubbed on rheumatic joints and cramps[257].

Known Hazards

The whole plant contains a toxic glycoside called coronillin[9, 13, 19, 65]. It is one of the most toxic plants growing in Britain[9].