Star Seed

DESCRIPTION: Crownvetch is a long-lived legume which is native to the Mediterranean regions of Europe, southwest Asia and Africa. The plants ascend to a height of 61 to 122 cm (24 to 48 inches) with pinnately compound leaves, typically with 9 to 25 leaflets; they spread by creeping underground root stocks. The pea-like flowers are variegated white to rose or violet and are borne in an umbel resembling a crown. Seed pods are segments and finger-like.

AREA OF ADAPTATION: Crownvetch is best adapted to well-drained fertile soils with a pH of six or above. It performs well in areas with a mean annual precipitation of 50cm (20 inches) or more, but does not tolerate drought very well.

PLANTING: Planting should be done either in early spring or late summer to early fall. Seed must be inoculated prior to sowing. Drill seed 1.3 to 2.5 cm (1/2 to 1 inch) deep, depending on soil type. A higher seeding rate should be used for watershed protection of poor, erosive slopes and for stabilization of highway embankments, mine spoils and disturbed lands.

USES: Erosion Control

SEEDING RATES: 10 to 20 lbs. PLS/acre

NUMBER OF SEED: 110,000 per lb. (0.46 kg)