Crown Vetch and Erosion

Tara wrote about erosion and the important role that turf grass plays in preventing erosion from occurring. Read her blog post by clicking here.

I went up to Minnesota over the holiday weekend and snapped a few pictures from the gardens at my grandparent's farm. I snapped this picture of crown vetch. This plant is sometimes used as an ornamental (like in this case), but more often you will see it along road sides for erosion control.

Although the plant is native to the Mediterranean, it has become naturalized throughout the United States. If you see pinkish-purple flowers blooming along the roadside during June, July or August, you are most likely enjoying this perennial flower.

There are some reports of it becoming invasive. Have you had any experience growing this perennial? If so, share your story!