Description

Groundnut Perennial Vine

This valuable, Native American, hardy perennial vine is prized for it nutty flavored, potato-like tubers. Groundnut once widely grown in North America, it is now a commercial crop in Japan. This vigorous vine can grow up to 15 feet in one season and produces attractive, reddish-brown flowers. Like potatoes, the tasty, walnut size tubers should be cooked before eating and are used similarly in many dishes.

Latin Name: Apios americana
Site and Soil: Likes sun and well drained, moist soil.
Hardiness: Groundnut can be grown where temperatures drop to minus 20°F or below, or grow it as an annual and replant tubers in the spring.
Bearing Age: 1-2 years after planting
Size at Maturity: Up to 15 ft. in height or spread
Flower Color: Reddish-brown
Bloom Time: Summer
Ripening Time: Fall
Yield: 2-3 lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Groundnut is not bothered by pests or diseases. Protect from gophers and mice.
USDA Zone: 5