“Milk Vetch, the Bees’ Knees”

Having many varieties, Milk Vetch is a common nectar source for honeybees and bumblebees. With its tubular flowers, it also attracts hummingbirds, song birds, and butterflies, including the Western Tailed Blue Butterfly larvae. Vetch blooms from mid May to late June and stands 12 to 24 inches tall.

Part of the legume family, most species harbor beneficial bacteria called rhizobia on their roots. Certain strains of this bacteria can aid in the fixation of atmospheric nitrogen and improve long-term health of native plant communities.

Original mixed media on raw stretched canvas with maple float frame.