Kidney Vetch
Anthyllis vulneraria
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
Kidney Vetch is one of the earlier colonisers of semi-fixed dune grassland and a key wildflower of the Sefton Coast. The flowerheads are distinctive — clustered yellow or cream pea-flowers with a velvety, felted calyx that inflates when in seed. It's the sole larval foodplant of the Small Blue butterfly (which is not currently confirmed on the Sefton Coast but may occur). Good for bees and other pollinators.
At a Glance
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Habitat | Semi-fixed dune grassland · Calcareous grassland · Cliff-top grassland |
| UK population | Locally common on calcareous and dune grassland in England and Wales |
| Sefton Coast | Present on younger dune grassland throughout the Sefton Coast; also on the larval foodplant of Small Blue butterfly |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Open dune grassland, particularly on the younger, semi-fixed dunes at Ainsdale and Formby.
Identification
Sprawling or upright plant. Pinnate, silky leaves. Flowers in rounded heads: yellow, cream or occasionally orange/red. Distinctive velvety inflated calyx. Silky-haired stems.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Look on open, disturbed dune grassland in June. The clustered flower heads and velvety calyx are distinctive.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kidney Vetch used medicinally?
Yes — the Latin name vulneraria means 'wound-healer'. Kidney Vetch was historically applied to wounds and skin conditions. Modern analysis confirms the plant contains compounds with mild antimicrobial properties. The name 'kidney vetch' refers to the kidney-shaped seeds.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.