Apios americana
Groundnut
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Apios americana.
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium)
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Partial shade, Full sun
Usage properties
Root, Seed, Seed pod
Companion plant, Latex, Carbon farming, Nitrogen fixer, Fragrant, Parasiticide
Description
The tubers of this plant can be consumed both raw and cooked and have a delicious flavor similar to roasted sweet potatoes. You can also dry the tubers and grind them into powder, which can be used as a thickening agent in soups or added to grain flour for bread. With a protein content of 17%, these tubers offer three times as much protein as potatoes. The first harvest of tubers can take place in the first year, but only after two to three years is an abundant harvest possible, with a yield of up to about 2.3 kilograms per plant. The best time to harvest them is in the fall, after which they can be stored until spring. The seeds of this plant, which can also be eaten cooked, are quite small and can be compared to peas and beans. They are a good source of protein and can also be ground into powder for use in bread products.