Vigna subterranea

Vigna subterranea (also known as Bambara groundnut, Bambara-bean, or Bambara nut) is a member of the family Fabaceae. The plant is an annual herbaceous legume and is indigenous to Sub-Saharan Africa. The name 'Bambara' comes from the Bambara people who cultivate this crop in the West African region.

Description

The Vigna subterranea plant is erect and can grow up to 0.75 m high. It has trifoliate leaves, similar to other members of the Fabaceae family. The flowers are self-pollinating, and the pods develop underground, much like the peanut. Each pod contains one to two seeds.

Cultivation

Vigna subterranea is primarily cultivated in the Sahel region, which stretches across Africa from Senegal to Sudan. It is also grown in parts of Southern Africa, including Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. The plant prefers sandy soil and requires a good amount of sunlight to grow. It is a hardy plant and can tolerate drought conditions.

Uses

The seeds of Vigna subterranea are high in protein and are often used as a food source in Africa. They can be eaten fresh or dried and are used in a variety of dishes. The seeds can also be ground into a flour and used for baking. In addition to its use as a food source, the plant is also used in traditional medicine in some African cultures.

Nutritional Value

The seeds of Vigna subterranea are rich in protein, carbohydrates, and essential minerals. They are a good source of dietary fiber and contain significant amounts of B vitamins, particularly thiamin and riboflavin. The seeds also contain essential amino acids, including lysine and methionine.

See Also

• Vigna radiata
• Vigna unguiculata
• Vigna angularis