Vetch is a generic term for a number of small seeded species in the genus Vicia. The most commonly grown grain species of vetch are: common vetch (Vicia sativa), purple vetch (Vicia benghalensis) and woolly-pod vetch (Vicia vollosa). Vetch is a versatile crop, particularly suited to the drier areas of Australia, especially the southern states where production is centred. This multi-purpose crop is used for the production of grain, green manure or fodder, while providing the rotational benefits of other legume crops. In Australia vetch is a minor crop. The grain is used for bird seed and as stock feed.