The plants are sparingly pubescent with procumbent stems up to 3 or more feet. Leaves consist of up to 7 pairs of elliptic or oblong leaflets. Common vetch is sown both as a soil improvement crop and for hay. For hay or seed production it is usually planted with a grain crop, as oats or wheat, to support the vetch plants. Seeding is in the fall in mild climates, in spring in cold areas.
Common vetch produces a palatable bay, especially for cattle.
Good winter and spring grazing is provided in mild climates. Williamette, Warrior and Doark are important varieties of common vetch.