Kidney Vetch (Woundwort, Ladies Fingers)

• Common Name: Kidney Vetch (Woundwort, Ladies Fingers)
• Latin Name: Anthyllis vulneraria
• Family Name: Fabaceae/Leguminosae

Kidney Vetch has been used since ancient times as a treatment for skin eruptions and minor wounds, and there is no known toxicity to tortoises, but as with all legumes the leaves and flowers are rather high in protein, so they are fine as a small part of a varied diet (but do not feed the fruit or seeds as they have a greater protein content).  It has been reported that eating large amounts of Kidney Vetch can have a laxative effect, so this is another reason for feeding in moderation only.  The flowers are usually yellow, although they can also be found in shades and combinations of orange, red, purple and white.  Do not confuse with Vetch, Milk Vetch or other plants called Vetch.