Hog Peanut
Amphicarpaea bracteatafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 73EE — Amphicarpaea bracteata
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IOverview
Overview
Hog Peanut (Amphicarpaea bracteata) is a perennial plant native to the eastern United States and parts of Canada, ranging from Maine and Québec southward to Florida and Texas. This vine can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and thrives in partial sun to full shade with moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-9, making it adaptable across a wide range of climates. Known for its edible roots and seeds, Hog Peanut has been utilized both as food and medicine by indigenous peoples. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to produce two types of fruit: underground and above-ground, which adds an interesting ecological dimension to this plant's life cycle.
Quick answers
What is Hog Peanut?
Hog Peanut (Amphicarpaea bracteata) is a perennial plant native to the eastern United States and parts of Canada, ranging from Maine and Québec southward to Florida and Texas. This vine can grow up to 1.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Sunshade Balance
skintincture
Used traditionally for skin health and protection.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Hog Peanut thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-9 and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. For propagation, sow seeds directly into the ground in spring. This perennial plant is native to a wide range of eastern North American states and parts of Mexico, making it adaptable to various climates within its natural habitat.
Light
Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Hog Peanut for the first time
6steps
Start with planting Hog Peanut in a suitable location and basic care to ensure its healthy growth.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, garden soil, container if needed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with partial sun to full shade. Ensure the soil is moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in the ground or plant seedlings at the same depth.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist. Monitor for any signs of stress and adjust watering as needed.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:RootSeed
Edible uses: The Hog Peanut is used for its root and seed, which can be eaten raw or cooked. The roots are often boiled, while the seeds can be roasted or ground into flour. Both parts add a nutty flavor to dishes.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Massachusetts, Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Manitoba, Maryland, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nova Scotia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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