Hedysarum Boreale Seeds – 25 Utah Sweetvetch Native Pink Prairie Legume

Hedysarum boreale, commonly known as Utah Sweetvetch, is a native perennial legume that brings a soft, natural beauty to prairies, meadows, and mountain wildflower gardens. Its delicate pink to purplish pea-like flowers bloom in loose clusters above attractive, fern-like foliage, creating a lovely contrast in sunny borders and native plantings. This hardy wildflower is well-adapted to dry, well-drained sites and is often used in xeriscapes, pollinator gardens, and restoration projects.

Utah Sweetvetch is a nitrogen-fixing legume, meaning it can improve soil fertility over time. It is drought tolerant once established and provides forage for bees and other beneficial insects. Whether you are a native plant enthusiast or looking to add a tough, beautiful perennial to a challenging spot, Hedysarum boreale is an excellent choice.

Plant Features

• Native perennial legume with pink to purplish pea-like flowers
• Drought tolerant and well-suited to dry, well-drained soils
• Nitrogen-fixing, helping to enrich the soil
• Attracts bees and other pollinators
• Ideal for prairie, meadow, and mountain wildflower gardens

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Hedysarum boreale
• Plant Type: Perennial
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil
• Water Requirements: Low to medium; drought tolerant once established
• Bloom Season: Late spring to summer
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 8
• Mature Height: 12 to 24 inches
• Spacing: 12 to 18 inches apart

Planting & Care

To grow Utah Sweetvetch from seeds, scarify the seed coat by lightly nicking or rubbing with sandpaper, then soak in water for 12 to 24 hours before sowing. Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors in fall or early spring. Press seeds into the soil surface and cover lightly, as light aids germination. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs in 14 to 30 days at 65 to 75°F (18 to 24°C).

Once seedlings have several sets of true leaves, transplant them into well-drained soil in a sunny location. Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a deep root system. After establishment, Utah Sweetvetch requires little supplemental water and thrives in lean, dry conditions. Avoid overwatering or poorly drained sites, as this can lead to root rot. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms, or allow seed pods to form for self-sowing.

What's Included

You will receive 25 Hedysarum boreale (Utah Sweetvetch) seeds.