Coronilla varia
Coronilla varia · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant coronilla varia: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to September
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm tall, spreading habit
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -15°C
- Origin
- Southern Europe and Western Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, poor to average
Care
Exposure
Plant your Coronilla varia in full sun for optimal and abundant flowering. It tolerates partial shade but will flower less generously. Choose a well-ventilated location to minimize fungal issues.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing and flowering period, without excess. Once established, this plant tolerates drought well. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Preparation
Prepare well-drained, poor to average soil and slightly chalky if possible. Avoid overly rich soils that would encourage foliage at the expense of flowering. A light compost application at planting is sufficient.
Pruning and Maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact habit and encourage branching. You can also cut back in late winter if the plant becomes too sprawling. Remove dead foliage in autumn.
Fertilization
Apply little fertilizer: this legume fixes nitrogen from the air thanks to its symbiotic bacteria. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is more than enough.
Diseases and Pests
Coronilla varia is rarely affected by diseases if drainage is good. Watch for powdery mildew in case of stagnant humidity. Aphids may occasionally affect it but rarely cause serious damage.
Did you know?
Coronilla varia, also called crown vetch, is an exceptional bee plant: its pink and white umbel-shaped flower clusters attract bees and butterflies in abundance from May to September. In Europe, it is often sown on roadsides and difficult areas for its exceptional ability to naturally fertilize poor soil.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.