Shading affects the growth and nutrient accumulation of different Chinese milk vetch varieties. Yijiang had higher yield without shading or with 40% shading, while Zhezi did best with 75% shading. As shading increased, seedling mortality rose, shoot height increased initially, then leveled off, and leaf area decreased. Carbon content decreased with shading, but nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium increased. Yijiang and Xinyang had highest nutrient accumulation without shading, while Zhezi did best with 40% shading. Overall, Zhezi is the best variety for interplanting in paddy fields.