American Hogpeanut (Amphicarpaea bracteata)

American Hogpeanut

(Amphicarpaea bracteata)

American Hogpeanut (Amphicarpaea bracteata)

Judy Gallagher

CC BY 2.0

Image By: Judy Gallagher

Recorded By:

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Amphicarpaea bracteata, commonly known as American Hogpeanut, is a deciduous vine or herbaceous plant that can behave as an annual or short-lived perennial. It is native to a variety of habitats including deciduous woodlands, forest edges, and thickets across the Eastern United States and Ontario. This species is part of the Fabaceae family, which is characterized by its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. The plant typically climbs or sprawls to a length of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters), with compound leaves consisting of three leaflets and twining stems that allow it to climb other vegetation. The flowers, which appear from late summer to autumn, range in color from pink to white and are modest in size. They are unique in that they can be either chasmogamous (open for cross-pollination) or cleistogamous (closed and self-pollinating), with the latter sometimes occurring underground. The seeds from open flowers are encased in a flat, elongated pod that dries and twists to expel the seeds when mature.

American Hogpeanut is valued for its ability to enrich soil with nitrogen, making it a beneficial companion plant in gardens. It is also used for ornamental purposes, particularly in naturalized areas or wildflower gardens. It thrives in a range of light conditions, from full sun to part shade, and is adaptable to various soil types with different drainage rates. While it is not a high-maintenance plant, it does require consistent moisture. There are no significant disease or pest issues, but gardeners should be aware that it can spread vigorously in favorable conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Vine, Herb
Height: 1-5 feet
Width: 1-5 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: Purple, White
Flowering Season: Summer
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to deciduous woodlands, forest edges, and thickets across the Eastern United States and Ontario

Other Names

Common Names: Hog Peanut, Ground Bean, Hog-Peanut, American Hog Peanut, Wild Peanut, Haricot De Terre, Amphicarpe Bractéolée

Scientific Names: , Amphicarpaea bracteata, Amphicarpa bracteata, Amphicarpaea bracteata var. comosa, Amphicarpaea bracteata var. bracteata, Amphicarpaea comosa, Amphicarpaea monoica, Amphicarpaea pitcheri, Glycine monoica, Amphicarpa bracteata var. comosa

GBIF Accepted Name: Amphicarpaea bracteata (L.) Fernald