Groundnut
Amphicarpaea bracteata · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant groundnut: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- Summer to fall (August-September)
- Adult size
- 40 to 80 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Moderate (down to approximately -10°C)
- Origin
- Temperate North America
- Soil type
- Well-drained, fertile soil, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Light Exposure
Groundnut appreciates a sunny to partial shade location. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily encourages flowering and the production of underground tubers. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade helps limit water stress.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing period to keep the soil lightly moist, without waterlogging. Once established, the plant tolerates moderate drought. Reduce watering as autumn approaches to encourage dormancy.
Soil
Prepare rich, well-drained, loose soil high in organic matter to allow underground tubers to develop properly. A compost application in spring optimizes fertility. Avoid compacted or overly clayey soils.
Fertilizing
As a legume, groundnut fixes atmospheric nitrogen and doesn't require nitrogen-based fertilizer. A balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer or well-aged compost at the start of growth is sufficient.
Pruning and Training
Little intervention is needed. You can remove withered stems in autumn after natural senescence. If the plant becomes invasive, prune lightly in spring to control its growth.
Diseases and Pests
Groundnut is generally robust. Watch for aphids and slugs that may affect young shoots. Good air circulation and avoiding excessive leaf moisture reduce the risk of powdery mildew or rust.
Did you know?
Groundnut produces two types of flowers: visible aerial flowers and underground flowers (cleistogamous) that give rise to precious edible tubers without requiring pollination. This extraordinary mechanism, called amphicarpy, explains its scientific name and makes it remarkably self-fertile.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.