Contents
Description
Arachis Pintoi, also known as Pinto Peanut, is a low-growing, warm-season perennial legume that is native to South America. It has been introduced to several countries, including the United States, where it is widely used as a groundcover plant. It is a miracle plant because it can help protect soil erosion, provide a natural source of nitrogen, and improve soil fertility.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Arachis |
Appearance
Arachis Pintoi has a prostrate growth habit, with stems that can grow up to 1 meter in length. Its leaves are trifoliate, with oval-shaped leaflets that are about 1-2 cm long. The flowers are yellow, and the fruit is a small, round pod that contains one or two seeds. The plant has a deep root system that can grow up to 1.5 meters, making it drought-tolerant and resistant to soil erosion.
Care Guide
Arachis Pintoi is relatively easy to care for, and it requires minimal maintenance once it is established. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the first few months after planting to help it establish a deep root system. After that, it can tolerate drought conditions.
- Fertilization: Arachis Pintoi is a nitrogen-fixing plant, which means it can produce its own nitrogen. However, you can still fertilize it with a low-phosphorus fertilizer to promote growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. It can grow in sandy or clay soils.
- Sunlight: Arachis Pintoi prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arachis Pintoi is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root-knot nematodes, which can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. You can control nematodes by rotating crops, using nematode-resistant varieties, and applying organic soil amendments that contain beneficial nematodes.
Habitat
Arachis Pintoi grows well in warm, humid climates, and it is commonly found in pastures, lawns, and gardens. It can tolerate acidic or alkaline soils and can grow in areas with low fertility. The plant is also used as a cover crop to protect soil erosion and improve soil health.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Arachis Pintoi invasive?
A: No, Arachis Pintoi is not considered invasive. It is a non-aggressive plant that grows slowly and does not spread quickly.
Q: Can Arachis Pintoi be used as a forage crop?
A: Yes, Arachis Pintoi is often used as a forage crop for cattle and other livestock. It is high in protein and can provide a nutritious food source.
Q: How long does it take for Arachis Pintoi to establish?
A: Arachis Pintoi can take up to 6 months to establish, depending on the growing conditions.
Q: Can Arachis Pintoi be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Arachis Pintoi can be grown in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate its deep root system.
Related Plants
- Arachis hypogaea (Peanut)
- Arachis glabrata (Perennial Peanut)
- Arachis repens (Wild Peanut)
- Arachis villosulicarpa
References
- USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network – (GRIN) [Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland. Available: https://npgsweb.ars-grin.gov/gringlobal/taxon/taxonomysearch.aspx [28 March 2022]
- Wagner Jr., W.L. et al. (2018). Manual of the Flowering Plants of Hawai‘i, Revised Edition. University of Hawai‘i Press.
- Williams, W.A. (2007). Arachis pintoi: A Potential Ground Cover for Florida Citrus Groves. University of Florida IFAS Extension.
