Interesting facts

The scientific name of the plant is derived from its appearance and use: anthos = flower, ioulos = down and vulnus = wound together give a softly hairy flowering plant used for the treatment of wounds. The common name derives from the fact that the plant was also used for the treatment of kidney troubles.

Kidney Vetch probably only gained significance in Germany in the course of the 16th century and was valued in traditional medicine for the treatment of wounds.

The caterpillar of the smallest butterfly in Germany, the Small Blue (Cupido minimus), feeds on Kidney Vetch. Kidney Vetch and Bladder Senna are the only plants they eat. Wild bees also value Kidney Vetch as a source of nectar.