Peanut plant

The peanut is the most popular nut in the United States. The peanut is a legume and closely related to beans and peas but differs widely from then because of its habit of developing the pods underground. The peanuts plant itself (Arachis bypogaea) grows a flower that sends a shoot down into the ground, where it enlarges into tissue that becomes the peanut.

Peanuts are grown in tropical and subtropical climates. They need much sunshine, warm temperature, moderate rainfall, and a frost-free growing period of 4 to 5 months. They thrive best in light, well drained, sandy soil.

There are two types of peanut plants: runner, which spread out like vines, and bunch peanut plants, which grow upright like small bushes.

Peanuts may be roasted in their shells before they’re eaten. Or they may be shelled and prepared as salted peanuts. Roasted peanuts are used in candy and baked goods, for peanut butter and in many other foods. Peanuts are often grown just for their oil.
Peanut plant