VETCHES AND VETCH-LIKE PLANTS 477 



this is narrowly elliptical in outline, almost equally broad 

 at each end, while in other vetches it is lanceolate or wedge- 

 shaped. Brown finds that the germ of hairy vetch seed 

 is paler than other vetches used as adulterants. If any 

 of the seeds when crushed disclose colors varying from 

 dark fawn to reddish-orange, they are not hairy vetch. 



OTHER VETCHES 



582. Narrow-leaved vetch (Vicia angustifolia) is very 

 nearly related to common vetch, but is distinguished by 

 its narrower leaflets, smaller flowers, black pods and round, 

 smaller seeds. It is much better adapted to the conditions 

 of the eastern United States than common vetch, as it has 

 become naturalized and thoroughly established from 

 Georgia to Pennsylvania, and occurs even as far north as 

 Nova Scotia. In Georgia it is highly appreciated in 

 the vetch-growing sections and sometimes makes up a 

 considerable portion of the hay. It maintains itself 

 from year to year, as some seeds mature before common 

 vetch is ready to cut for hay. On pastures it remains as 

 a permanent element and is greatly valued. Seed is 

 sometimes offered for sale, but is not available in quan- 

 tity. 



583. Purple vetch (Vicia atropurpurea) is a native of 

 Europe cultivated to a slight extent in England, Germany, 

 and France. It is an annual species with handsome red- 

 purple flowers. Its adaptations are essentially those of 

 common vetch. 



It has proved to be very well adapted to western Oregon, 

 where it has produced as good hay crops and better seed 

 crops than common vetch. In California it has proven 

 very satisfactory as a green-manure crop in citrus orchards, 

 as it makes a heavy growth in the cool weather of winter. 



