Arachis glabrata

Arachis glabrata is a species of peanut that is native to South America. It is commonly known as the perennial peanut or rhizoma peanut. This plant is a member of the Fabaceae family and is closely related to the Arachis hypogaea, the common peanut.

Description

The Arachis glabrata is a perennial plant that grows close to the ground. It has a creeping growth habit and produces a dense mat of leaves and stems. The leaves are pinnately compound with four leaflets. The flowers are bright yellow and are produced on short stalks. The fruit is a legume that is produced underground.

Distribution and habitat

Arachis glabrata is native to Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. It is adapted to a wide range of soil types and is tolerant of both drought and waterlogging. It is commonly found in grasslands and open woodlands.

Uses

Arachis glabrata is primarily used as a forage crop for livestock. It is highly nutritious and is well-liked by cattle, sheep, and goats. It is also used as a ground cover in orchards and vineyards, where it helps to control weeds and improve soil fertility.

In recent years, there has been interest in using Arachis glabrata as a sustainable alternative to traditional lawn grasses. It requires less water and maintenance than most lawn grasses and is resistant to many common lawn pests.

Cultivation

Arachis glabrata is propagated by planting rhizomes. It is a slow-growing plant and may take several years to establish a dense cover. Once established, it is a low-maintenance plant that requires little fertilization or irrigation.

Research

Research is ongoing into the potential uses of Arachis glabrata. Some studies have suggested that it may have potential as a biofuel crop. Other research is investigating its potential for use in phytoremediation, the use of plants to remove pollutants from the environment.

See also

• Arachis pintoi
• Arachis duranensis
• Arachis villosa