It is a biennial or perennial plant, typically small (15-40 cm), belonging to the pea family (Fabaceae). The flowers are usually orange, red, or yellow, arranged in clusters at the ends of stems. Kidney vetch blooms from June to July, with seed production in August.

Kidney vetch is irregularly distributed in Latvia, more common in the western part and rare or very rare in other areas. It is favored by animals as a food source.

Due to its chemical composition, kidney vetch possesses medicinal properties, providing antiseptic, blood-purifying, wound-healing, antitoxic, and other beneficial effects. For example, its tannins and vitamin C make it an excellent astringent, while flavonoids positively influence blood vessels, acting as a strengthening agent and aiding in wound healing.

Photo: www.redzet.eu

Information sources: www.latvijasdaba.lv, Wikipedia, https://www.agfonds.lv