The Herbarium at the University of Georgia Poisonous Plants of Georgia
The Herbarium of the University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
Common Name:
Scientific Name:
Vetch Vicia villosa Roth
Family:
 Fabaceae
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This plant may be poisonous to both humans and animals. Please refer to the "Symptoms" section below for information regarding susceptiblity of animal species to poisoning.
Description:
 This annual or perennial herb has climbing stems. The leaves are compound and have tendrils at their ends. The flowers resemble skinny pea flowers and form elongated clusters of up to 40 flowers. The flowers are violet to white. The fruit is a pod.
Toxic Part: The entire plant is toxic.
Toxin: The toxin responsible for symptoms may be a lectin.
Symptoms: Common signs of intoxication in cattle include dermatitis, conjunctivitis, diarrhea, loss of hair, and in some cases death. Reportedly, the disease may take two weeks to develop symptoms after plant ingestion.
Treatment: Animals are usually treated for symptoms as the exact toxin responsible for the symptoms has not yet been identified.
References: 65, 126, 133, 137
This site is NOT a substitute for the advice of medical physician. Plant poisonings can, in certain cases, result in SERIOUS HARM AND EVEN DEATH. Please contact a physician or your local poison control center if you suspect any plant poisoning. A link to the Georgia Poison Control Center can be found on the "References and Links" page of this site.