The hairy vetch is a rather polymorphic annual plant with a broadly Mediterranean distribution, present in all regions of Italy (except perhaps in Valle d'Aosta), with different subspecies. The nominal subspecies, once cultivated as fodder and now in strong decline, is absent from many regions. It grows in uncultivated arid environments, in ruderal habitats, sometimes in crops, below the lower montane belt. The species sporadically appears on the edge of the temporary ponds of Sardinia, in contact with ruderal vegetation. The genus name derives from the Latin 'viere' or 'vincire' (to tie), referring to the presence of tendrils with which many species cling to a support; the species name refers to the hairiness of the plant. Flowering period: April to June.

Italian name(s): Veccia pelosa varia (Italia), Veccia villosa varia (Italia), Vezza salvadga (Emilia-Romagna, Reggio).