Purple crownvetch spotted spreading through Portland neighborhood streets
iNaturalist: neaturejoe
Invasive Species
Purple crownvetch can quietly take over a garden bed or roadside verge within a single season, crowding out native wildflowers that local bees and butterflies depend on.
Purple crownvetch is a low-growing vine with clusters of pink-purple flowers that was brought over from Europe and widely planted along roadsides to hold soil in place. It spreads aggressively by both underground roots and seeds, which makes it hard to remove once established. This sighting in a Portland neighborhood is a reminder that it shows up in yards and parks across the Northeast, often without anyone planting it intentionally.
Key Findings
Research-grade observation of Securigera varia (purple crownvetch) recorded at Harvey St, Portland, ME
Sighting confirms continued urban spread of this non-native perennial in coastal New England
Species reproduces via rhizomes and seeds, enabling persistent naturalization in disturbed and maintained landscapes
chevron_right Technical Summary
A research-grade observation of purple crownvetch, a spreading perennial vine native to Europe and western Asia, was recorded on Harvey Street in Portland, Maine. This confirms the plant's continued presence in urban areas of New England, where it has naturalized widely after being planted for erosion control.
Abstract Preview
Original paper
purple crownvetch (Securigera varia) observed in Harvey St, Portland, ME, US
Research-grade observation of purple crownvetch in Harvey St, Portland, ME, US.
open_in_new Read full abstractAbstract copyright held by the original publisher.
Species Mentioned
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Securigera varia, commonly known as crownvetch or purple crown vetch, is a low-growing legume vine. It is native to Africa, Asia and Europe and is commonly used throughout the United States and Canada for erosion control, roadside planting and soil rehabilitation. It has become an invasive specie...