Scorpion-vetch (Coronilla coronata, Syst. Nat. ed. 10. 2: 1168 (1759))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Syst. Nat. ed. 10. 2: 1168 (1759)

Year: 1759

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Coronilla

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: C. Europe to Türkiye and Caucasus

Description

Scorpion-vetch, known scientifically as Coronilla coronata, is an intriguing member of the Fabaceae family, prominently noted in botanical literature as early as 1759 by the renowned taxonomist Carl Linnaeus. This plant holds a significant ecological presence, flourishing across regions from Central Europe to Türkiye and extending into the Caucasus.

The Scorpion-vetch exhibits distinctive characteristics typical of its family, displaying intricate flower structures and a robust growth habit that endears it to a variety of landscapes. The plant is perennial, often forming bushy clumps that can provide ground cover and contribute to soil stabilization, which is particularly beneficial for controlling erosion in its native habitats.

Its flowers, which typically appear in dense, vibrant clusters, not only add a splash of color to the countryside but also serve as an important nectar source for pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects are frequently observed visiting these blossoms, making Coronilla coronata an integral component of local ecosystems.

The foliage of Scorpion-vetch is equally notable. The leaf arrangement, consisting of pinnate leaves with multiple leaflets, allows for an efficient photosynthetic process and contributes to the plant’s overall health and vigor. This adaptation enables it to thrive in a range of environmental conditions, from the open meadows of Central Europe to the diverse climates found in Türkiye and the Caucasus region.

Historically, Coronilla coronata has been utilized not only for its ecological benefits but also for its aesthetic appeal. Gardeners and landscape designers sometimes incorporate this versatile plant into horticultural projects to create visually appealing, low-maintenance green spaces that support local wildlife.

In summary, the Scorpion-vetch, with its scientific marker Coronilla coronata, stands as a testament to nature’s ingenuity and resilience. Its broad geographical range, ecological significance, and historical acknowledgment by Linnaeus underscore its importance within the Fabaceae family and its enduring presence in the natural world.

Common Names

Deu: berg-kronwicke
Swe: bergkronill
Eng: scorpion-vetch
En: Scorpion-vetch, Mountain Coronilla
Nl: Bergkroonkruid, Berg-kroonkruid
Fr: “Coronille couronnée, Coronille des montagnes, Coronille en couronne”, Coronille couronnée, Coronille en couronne
De: Berg-Kronwicke
It: Cornetta coronata
Sv: Bergkronill

Synonyms

• Coronilla coronata f. gracilis (H.Jahn)
• Coronilla coronata f. macrantha (H.Jahn)
• Coronilla coronata f. macrophylla (H.Jahn)
• Coronilla coronata f. multiflora (H.Jahn)
• Coronilla montana (Scop.)
• Coronilla coronata f. fructolineata (H.Jahn)
• Coronilla valentina (Lam.)
• Ornithopus coronatus ((L.) Hornem.)
• Coronilla coronata f. pedunculata (H.Jahn)
• Coronilla coronata var. rossica (H.Jahn)
• Coronilla coronata var. minor (Gaudin)

Distribution

• Albania (native)
• Austria (native)
• Czechoslovakia (native)
• France (native)
• Germany (native)
• Greece (native)
• Hungary (native)
• Italy (native)
• Krym (native)
• North Caucasus (native)
• Switzerland (native)
• Transcaucasus (native)
• Turkey (native)
• Ukraine (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Mar 29, 2021 by Thomas caze (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 26, 2020 by Antoni Urbaneja Vizcaíno (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 11, 2021 by Frédérique Rousseau (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 31, 2022 by Roselyne CHARVET DISCHLY (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 4, 2021 by Georgia Pocquet (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 7, 2019 by Franco Colnago (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 6, 2020 by Lqh Lqg (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 29, 2022 by Gérard JOLLY (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 23, 2020 by planetaverde (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 18, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Marie-France PETIBON (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 18, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Marie-France PETIBON (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 21, 2020 by beatrice Derouvroy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Mar 5, 2021 by Gilbert Launay (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jul 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Aug 15, 2005 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jun 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Aug 15, 2010 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Aug 15, 2003 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Aug 15, 2003 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken May 15, 2004 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5348660)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:487189-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Coronilla coronata L.)

Specifications

Growth