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Description
Arachis Repens is a low-growing perennial plant with trailing stems that are covered in small, oval-shaped leaves. It belongs to the family Fabaceae, which includes other leguminous plants such as peas and beans. This plant is native to South America, particularly Brazil and Argentina, and is commonly known as the “creeping peanut” due to its peanut-like leaves and growth habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Arachis |
| Species | Repens |
Appearance
Arachis Repens has a sprawling growth habit and can reach a height of up to 20cm. The stems are thin and covered in small, oval-shaped leaves that are a bright green color. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom in summer and fall, followed by small, edible, peanut-like seeds that form underground. The leaves and stems of this plant can also root at the nodes, allowing it to spread and form a dense ground cover.
Care Guide
Arachis Repens is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your creeping peanut:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant your creeping peanut in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade, so make sure it is planted in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
- Hardiness Zones: Arachis Repens is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arachis Repens is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some common issues to look out for:
- Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot in this plant.
- Aphids: Aphids can infest the leaves of Arachis Repens, causing them to curl and distort.
- Spider mites: Spider mites can also infest the leaves of this plant, causing yellowing and stippling.
Habitat
Arachis Repens is native to South America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and forests. It is commonly used as a ground cover in landscaping and is also grown as a forage crop for livestock.
Question and Answer
- Q: Is Arachis Repens edible?
- A: Yes, the seeds of this plant are edible and can be roasted and eaten like peanuts.
- Q: Does Arachis Repens attract pollinators?
- A: Yes, the yellow flowers of this plant attract bees and other pollinators.
- Q: Can Arachis Repens be grown indoors?
- A: While this plant can be grown indoors, it prefers full sun and may not thrive in low-light conditions.
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- Q: Can Arachis Repens be propagated from cuttings?
- A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Arachis hypogaea (Peanut)
- Arachis glabrata (Forage Peanut)
- Arachis pintoi (Pinto Peanut)
References
- “Arachis repens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281053&isprofile=0&basic=arachis%20repens.
- “Creeping Peanut.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP574.
- “Arachis repens.” Plantz Africa, www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/arachisrepens.htm.
