Rhizoma peanut (Arachis glabrata, Trans. Linn. Soc. London 18: 159 (1839))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Benth.

Bibliography: Trans. Linn. Soc. London 18: 159 (1839)

Year: 1839

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Arachis

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Bolivia to C. Brazil and NE. Argentina

Description

The Rhizoma peanut, scientifically known as Arachis glabrata, is a perennial legume plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Initially described by Benth. in 1839 within the records of the Linnean Society of London, this plant has garnered attention for its robust nature and versatile uses.

Originating from regions spanning eastern Bolivia, central Brazil, and northeastern Argentina, the Rhizoma peanut thrives in these South American locales due to their favorable climatic and soil conditions. Characterized by its extensive root system, this plant efficiently spreads underground rhizomes, leading to dense ground cover. This distinctive growth pattern makes the Rhizoma peanut particularly valuable for soil stabilization and as a forage crop.

The Rhizoma peanut features a lush, green appearance with pinnate leaves and bright yellow flowers that add a touch of vibrancy to its surrounding environment. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this plant plays a significant role in sustainable agriculture practices. As a legume, it enriches the soil with nitrogen, thereby improving soil fertility and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Farmers and agriculturalists often cultivate the Rhizoma peanut for its high nutritive value and palatability as livestock forage. Its ability to withstand grazing pressure and regrow rapidly ensures a continuous supply of fodder, making it an economical and environmentally friendly option. Moreover, its resilience to drought and moderate tolerance to acidic soils contribute to its adaptability across diverse landscapes.

In conclusion, the Rhizoma peanut (Arachis glabrata) is a multifaceted plant that offers numerous ecological and agricultural benefits. From soil conservation to sustainable livestock feeding, this South American native demonstrates the profound impact that a single plant species can have on environmental health and agricultural productivity.

Common Names

Eng: rhizoma peanut
Por: amendoim-do-campo-baixo
En: Rhizoma peanut, Amendoim-bravo, Peanut
Zh: 多年生花生
Pt: Amendoim do campo baixo, Amendoim-do-campo-baixo
Zh-tw: 多年生花生
Vi: Lạc trường niên

Synonyms

• Arachis glabrata f. typica (Hoehne)

Distribution

• Argentina Northeast (native)
• Bolivia (native)
• Brazil Southeast (native)
• Brazil West-Central (native)
• Paraguay (native)
• Alabama (introduced)
• Florida (introduced)
• Georgia (introduced)
• Ghana (introduced)
• Kenya (introduced)
• Louisiana (introduced)
• Tanzania (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jun 29, 2020 by huy HO (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Nov 28, 2021 by Antonele Marcia (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 17, 2020 by Trochez Héctor (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Pinky Shalom (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 23, 2019 by Daine (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2020 by waty samad (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:474927-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5353813)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Arachis glabrata Benth.)

Specifications

Growth