Amphicarpaea bracteata, commonly known as Hog Peanut, is a native perennial vine found in woodlands, prairies, and along roadsides throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils and prefers full sun to light shade.
This plant features trifoliate leaves and produces small, pea-like flowers in clusters, typically purple to pink in color, that bloom in mid to late summer. After flowering, it produces both aerial and underground seed pods. The underground pods, which resemble peanuts, contain edible seeds. The vine itself can spread to a height of 2 to 8 feet and often forms dense groundcover or can climb nearby vegetation.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Amphicarpaea bracteata is an excellent choice for naturalized landscapes, woodland gardens, or areas that benefit from ground cover. It provides habitat for wildlife, including birds and small mammals, and adds unique interest to gardens with its combination of flowering and edible seeds.
Amphicarpaea bracteata, commonly known as Hog Peanut, is a native perennial vine found in woodlands, prairies, and along roadsides throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils and prefers full sun to light shade.
This plant features trifoliate leaves and produces small, pea-like flowers in clusters, typically purple to pink in color, that bloom in mid to late summer. After flowering, it produces both aerial and underground seed pods. The underground pods, which resemble peanuts, contain edible seeds. The vine itself can spread to a height of 2 to 8 feet and often forms dense groundcover or can climb nearby vegetation.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Amphicarpaea bracteata is an excellent choice for naturalized landscapes, woodland gardens, or areas that benefit from ground cover. It provides habitat for wildlife, including birds and small mammals, and adds unique interest to gardens with its combination of flowering and edible seeds.
Bloom: mid-summer to fall
Habitats: damp sandy meadows; floodplain woodlands; low wooded areas along streams; seeps; soggy meadows
Lifespan: annual
Moisture: moist
Plant type (height): herbaceous vine (2 to 8 feet)
Requirements: full sun to light shade
Soil: loam; sand
