Vicia benghalensis, commonly known as Purple Vetch or Winter Vetch, is a climbing or trailing annual herb native to the Mediterranean region, including Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. It is typically found in a variety of habitats such as grasslands, open woodlands, and disturbed sites. This species grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). Its stems are slender and can be either erect or sprawling, with compound leaves that end in tendrils enabling the plant to climb. Purple Vetch produces showy, purple flowers in dense racemes that bloom in the summer, followed by pods containing seeds.

Purple Vetch is valued for its nitrogen-fixing ability, which enriches the soil, making it a beneficial cover crop in agricultural settings. It is also used for erosion control and as forage for livestock. In ornamental gardens, it can be grown as ground cover or allowed to climb on structures. It requires full sun to part shade and thrives in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils, provided they have medium to fast drainage. It is drought-tolerant once established and has medium water needs. While it is not commonly affected by diseases, it can become weedy and potentially invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should consult local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0