Vicia villosa, commonly known as hairy vetch, is a type of legume that is widely grown for its nitrogen-fixing properties. Other synonyms for this plant include Winter vetch, sand vetch, and woollypod vetch. Hairy vetch is an annual plant that thrives in cool and humid climates. It is often used for cover cropping, green manure, and erosion control. In addition to its agronomic benefits, hairy vetch is also an important source of food for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. Its leaves, stems, and flowers are rich in nutrients, making it a valuable forage plant for livestock.