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American hogpeanut
Scientific Name: Amphicarpaea bracteata var. comosa
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb, Vine
Duration: Annual, Perennial
Other Names: NH (hog-peanut)
American Hog Peanut (Amphicarpaea bracteata)
The American Hog Peanut, scientifically known as Amphicarpaea bracteata, is a fascinating native North American plant with several common names reflecting its unique characteristics and ecological role.
Common Names
- Hog Peanut
- American Wild Peanut
- Ground Bean
- Wild Peanut
- Talet
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Amphicarpaea bracteata (L.) Fernald var. bracteata
- Family: Fabaceae (Pea or Legume Family)
- Synonyms:
- Amphicarpa monoica
- Amphicarpaea bracteata var. comosa
- Glycine bracteata
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to eastern North America.
- Found in woodlands, thickets, and moist slopes.
- Occurs throughout most of Alabama, but is uncommon in sandy pine woods.
- Also found in Minnesota.
- Present in Canada.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Annual to perennial twining vine.
- Can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) in length.
- Slender stems, light green to reddish in color.
- Leaves emerge around May 10th.
- Does not have tendrils.
- Has two forms of flowers:
- Clusters of violet to white elongated pea-shaped flowers.
- Another type forms higher on the plants.
Ecological Role
- A shade-tolerant nitrogen-fixer.
- Seeds are eaten by hogs, contributing to seed dispersal.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Twines about adjacent vegetation and branches.
- Seeds have been historically consumed by American Indians.
Historical and Traditional Uses
- The seeds were widely eaten by Native Americans.
- Had several ethnobotanic uses for Native Americans.
- Occasionally cultivated for its edible seeds.