Crown Vetch

Crown Vetch from Europe was introduced to the United States in the 1950s by the Department of Transportation, to help control erosion along the highways. It is frequently planted alongside Bird's Foot Trefoil (see previous post). An added benefit was that it makes our travels a little more naturally colorful. Lady Bird Johnson was a big promoter of adding beauty along our nations highways. The 'Highway Beautification Act' was signed on October 22, 1965.