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Description
Apios, also known as the “groundnut” or “potato bean,” is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America and has a long history of being used for food and medicine by indigenous peoples. Apios produces edible tubers that have a nutty flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Apios |
Appearance
Apios can grow up to 3 meters in length and has twining stems that can climb or trail along the ground. It has compound leaves that consist of several leaflets, and its flowers are small and purple. The plant produces clusters of tubers that are brown and elongated, with a smooth skin and white flesh.
Care Guide
Apios requires regular watering and well-draining soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in hardiness zones 4-9. Fertilization should be done every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. The plant can be propagated through division or by planting tubers in the ground.
Common Pests & Diseases
Apios is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant.
Habitat
Apios is found in wetlands, swamps, and along streams and rivers in North America. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Apios be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Apios can be grown in containers as long as they are big enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How long does it take for Apios tubers to mature?
A: Apios tubers take about 2-3 years to mature.
Q: Is Apios a good source of nutrition?
A: Yes, Apios tubers are high in protein, fiber, and several vitamins and minerals.
Q: Can Apios be used in gluten-free cooking?
A: Yes, Apios is gluten-free and can be used as a substitute for wheat flour in recipes.
Related Plants
- Lupinus
- Phaseolus
- Vicia
- Pisum
References
- “Apios americana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a541.
- “Apios tuberosa.” Plants for a Future. Accessed October 15, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Apios+tuberosa.
- “Apios tuberosa.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed October 15, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=APTU.
