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Description
Amphicarpaea Bracteata, commonly known as American hog peanut, is a perennial vine that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands. This plant is known for its edible tubers, which have been used by Native Americans as a food source for centuries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Amphicarpaea |
Appearance
The leaves of Amphicarpaea Bracteata are alternate, trifoliate, and have a length of up to 10 cm. The flowers are small, white or pink, and grow in clusters. The fruit is a pod that contains one or two seeds. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and spreads by sending out runners that root at the nodes. The tubers are small, round, and resemble peanuts in appearance.
Care Guide
Amphicarpaea Bracteata prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate partial shade to full sun and requires moderate watering. Fertilization should be done in the spring using a balanced fertilizer. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Amphicarpaea Bracteata is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent infestation, it is recommended to keep the plant well-watered and to remove any diseased or damaged leaves.
Habitat
Amphicarpaea Bracteata can be found in various habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands. It is native to North America and can be found from Quebec to Florida and as far west as Texas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Amphicarpaea Bracteata edible?
A: Yes, the tubers of this plant are edible and have been used as a food source by Native Americans for centuries.
Q: Can Amphicarpaea Bracteata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as it has enough space to spread.
Q: How often should I water Amphicarpaea Bracteata?
A: This plant prefers moderate watering, so it should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: Is Amphicarpaea Bracteata a fast-growing plant?
A: No, this plant grows at a moderate pace and can take several years to reach its full size.
Related Plants
- Amphicarpaea Pitcheri
- Amphicarpaea Bracteata var. comosa
- Amphicarpaea Bracteata var. edgeworthii
References
- Bonnie, J. (2009). A Guide to Planting and Care. New York: Simon & Schuster.
- Clemson Cooperative Extension. (n.d.). American Hog Peanut. Retrieved from https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/american-hog-peanut/
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Plant Guide: American Hog Peanut. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_ambr3.pdf
