Arachis Hypogaea

Description

Arachis Hypogaea, also known as the peanut plant, is a legume crop that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South America and is now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The peanut plant is an annual herbaceous plant that can grow up to 50cm in height. It is an important crop due to its high protein content and oil-rich seeds. The peanut plant has a taproot system with lateral roots that can extend up to 60cm in depth and 1.5m in length.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The peanut plant has an erect stem with pinnate leaves that consist of four leaflets. The leaves are green and can grow up to 10cm in length. The flowers of the peanut plant are yellow and have five petals. The plant produces pods that are oblong in shape and can grow up to 7cm in length. The pods contain one to four seeds, which are the peanuts we eat. The peanut plant can produce flowers and fruits within 30 to 40 days after planting.

Care Guide

Watering the peanut plant is important to maintain healthy growth. It requires regular watering, but the soil should not be waterlogged as this can lead to root rot. Fertilization is also necessary for the plant to grow well. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10. The peanut plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. It requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. The plant can grow in hardiness zones 4 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The peanut plant is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including leaf spots, rust, nematodes, aphids, and thrips. Proper crop rotation and good sanitation practices can help prevent some diseases. The use of insecticides and fungicides can also help control pests and diseases.

Habitat

The peanut plant grows best in warm climates with temperatures between 20 to 30°C. It requires well-draining soil with good fertility and a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. The peanut plant is commonly grown in tropical and subtropical regions, including Africa, Asia, and South America.

Question and Answer

Q: How long does it take for the peanut plant to mature?
A: The peanut plant takes about 4 to 5 months to mature.

Q: How do you know when the peanuts are ready to harvest?
A: The peanut pods will turn yellow and the leaves will turn brown. The peanuts can be removed from the plant and dried in the sun.

Q: Can the peanut plant grow in containers?
A: Yes, the peanut plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Q: Are peanuts a nut or a legume?
A: Peanuts are legumes, not nuts. They are related to beans and lentils.

Related Plants

• Arachis Batizocoi
• Arachis Duranensis
• Arachis Villosulicarpa
• Arachis Pintoi

References

• Bertioli, D. J., Cannon, S. B., Froenicke, L., Huang, G., Farmer, A. D., Cannon, E. K. S., … & Schmutz, J. (2016). The genome sequences of Arachis duranensis and Arachis ipaensis, the diploid ancestors of cultivated peanut. Nature Genetics, 48(4), 438-446.
• Janick, J., & Paull, R. E. (2008). The encyclopedia of fruit and nuts. CABI.
• Pattee, H. E., & Young, C. T. (1982). Peanut science and technology. American Peanut Research and Education Society.