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American Groundnut

How to identify American Groundnut (Apios americana)

American Groundnut, also known as Groundnut, America Hodoimo, Indian Potato

American Groundnut displays its distinctiveness through a cascade of climbing or trailing vines, which can extend a considerable length of 8-16 feet (2.4-4.9 meters). Its foliage is characteristically green, and the vines bear a series of small, yet notable, flowers. The true gem lies underground; its sizeable tubers grow to substantial dimensions, which are of notable interest. The physical appearance of both the above-ground vine structure and underground tubers is pivotal for identification.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb, Vine

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify American Groundnut

1

Long climbing vines reach 8-16 feet (2.4-4.9 m).

2

Distinct maroon pea-like flowers in compact racemes.

3

Bean-shaped legume fruit grows 2-4 inches (5-10 cm).

4

Egg-shaped compound leaves with 5-7 leaflets, up to 2 inches (5 cm) long.

5

Smooth green twining stems, 0.1-0.2 inches (2.5-5 mm) thick.

American GroundnutAmerican GroundnutAmerican GroundnutAmerican GroundnutAmerican Groundnut

Detailed Traits of American Groundnut

Leaf Features

American Groundnut has egg-shaped, pinnately compound leaves, each consisting of 5-7 leaflets. The leaflets measure up to 2 inches (5 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. The undersides of the leaflets tend to be paler and may have fine hairs. These attributes, such as the distinct shape, size, and potential presence of hairs on the lower surfaces, help in identifying the leaves of this plant.

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Flower Features

The flowers of american Groundnut are characterized by maroon or reddish-brown hues, resembling pea flowers. Each bloom has 5 petals arranged in a compact raceme, emerging from the leaf axils. The flowers are small, roughly 0.4 to 0.8 inches (1 to 2 cm) in length, and display a unique shape typical of the Fabaceae family. They emit a subtle fragrance and bloom from June to August, adding vibrant color to their surroundings.

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Stem Features

The stem of american Groundnut is characterized by its twining green appearance. The texture is smooth, providing a supple surface that adeptly climbs and wraps around support structures. It typically measures between 0.1 to 0.2 inches (2.5 to 5 mm) in thickness. The stems exhibit a consistent green color, occasionally showing lighter green areas where younger growth occurs. They demonstrate a distinguished pattern of intertwining, making them easily recognizable in various habitats. No significant branching occurs along the main length of the stem.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of american Groundnut is a bean-shaped legume that ranges from 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) in length. It encases several seeds and has a fleshy, yet somewhat dry texture. This fruit matures during the months of July to September. When young, the legume may appear green and then typically transition to a darker hue upon ripening. The outer surface is smooth, featuring a firm pod that splits upon maturity to release the seeds contained within.

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Key Facts About American Groundnut

Attributes of American Groundnut
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb, Vine
Plant Height
1.8 m to 3 m
Spread
10 cm to 50 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Red
Brown
Pink
Purple
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Scientific Classification of American Groundnut

Family
Legume
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Genus
Apios
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Species
American Groundnut (Apios americana)
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Distribution Map of American Groundnut

American Groundnut is native to North America, thriving in a range of habitats across the continent. It has also established itself beyond its original range, notably across parts of Europe. American Groundnut adapts readily to different environments, allowing for its successful cultivation in various locations beyond its natural geographical bounds.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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