Climbing Sprite

Bird Vetch (or Cow Vetch) is a lovely, delicate flower with a fascinating history. Brought to North America from Europe and Asia for livestock fodder, it has become a prolific — now deemed invasive — scrambler along sunny roadsides, fields, and wetlands, like the beautiful Caldwell First Nation Conservation Boardwalk in Leamington.

Climbing Sprite

Upon the wooden, winding way,
Where Sturgeon Creek reflects the day,
The little vetch begins to grow,
And twines its tendrils to and fro.

A pretty traveler from afar,
With petals like a purple star,
It weaves a blanket, bright and sweet,
Around the boardwalk’s peaceful feet.

Pioneer days have long gone past,
But these sweet blooms are bred to last,
A gentle, bold, and climbing sprite,
That makes the summer marsh a sight!

‘Til next time, y’all…