Botanical Name of Groundnut

Introduction

The botanical name for groundnut is Arachis hypogaea L.. Originating from South America, particularly Brazil, groundnut is classified as an oil crop and legume.

Botanical Description of Groundnut

Part of Plant Description
Root Groundnut has a tap root extending 30-35 cm with laterals reaching 35-40 cm.
Stem The stem is cylindrical, hairy, and somewhat angular, becoming woody over time.
Leaves Groundnut leaves are pinnately compound with two pairs of leaflets.
Flowers Groundnut flowers are orange-yellow and appear 24 to 30 days after planting.
Seed The seed is encased in an indehiscent pod, containing one to five seeds.

Importance of Groundnut

Groundnut is the 13th most important food crop globally and the 4th largest source of edible oil. It is rich in protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It also contains resveratrol, which has various health benefits.

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Uses of Groundnut

  • Food Industry: Groundnuts are used in making peanut butter, oil, and snacks.
  • Industrial Uses: Groundnut oil is used in making paints, lubricants, and cosmetics.
  • Agriculture: Groundnuts improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation.

Health Benefits of Groundnut

  • Nutritional Value: Groundnuts are rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
  • Diabetes Management: They help control blood sugar levels.
  • Cancer Prevention: Contain beta-sitosterol, which may help prevent cancer.
  • Weight Management: High in fiber and protein, they help in weight control.
  • Skin and Hair Health: Vitamins in groundnuts promote healthy skin and hair.

Disadvantages of Groundnut

  • Weight Gain: High in calories, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
  • Allergies: Can cause severe allergic reactions in some people.
  • Sodium Intake: Salted groundnuts can increase sodium intake, affecting blood pressure.
  • Blood Clotting: Resveratrol in groundnuts can inhibit blood clotting.

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Origin of Groundnut

Arachi hypogaea is believed to have originated in South America, particularly in regions of Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The domesticated varieties come from the Andean foothills and have spread globally to tropical and warm regions.

Cultivation of Groundnut

Groundnuts thrive in light, sandy loam soil with a pH of 5.9–7. They fix nitrogen, improving soil fertility. Crop rotation with groundnuts can increase yields and reduce pests and diseases.

Key Cultivation Points

  • Soil: Light, sandy loam soil with good drainage.
  • Temperature: Warm temperatures are ideal.
  • Nutrients: Requires adequate phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

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Groundnut Growth Stages

Growth Stage Description
Early Growth Slow growth for the first 40 days.
Flowering Begins 24-30 days after planting, lasting 3-10 weeks.
Fruiting Pegs form and bury the ovary into the soil.
Harvest Pods mature underground, ready for harvest.

Conclusion

Groundnuts, or Arachis hypogaea, are a vital crop with numerous uses in food, industry, and agriculture. While they offer many health benefits, it is important to consume them in moderation due to their high-calorie content and potential allergenic properties. Proper cultivation techniques and awareness of their benefits and drawbacks can optimize their use and production.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Botanical Name of Groundnut

Groundnuts thrive in warm climates. They need an average temperature of 30°C-35°C during the growing season and plenty of sunlight.

Groundnut seeds can be eaten raw, boiled, or roasted. Their flour is used in confections and baked goods. Groundnut shells can be used to make particle boards, as fuel, or as filler in feed and fertilizers. Groundnut haulms are a nutritious animal feed.

Groundnuts need reliable rainfall of 500-700 mm during the growing season for the best yields. They are considered day-neutral plants, so day length does not significantly affect their growth.

Yes, groundnuts benefit from fertilizers containing phosphorus, calcium, and sulfur. Farmers should use superphosphate at a rate of 100 kg/ha before or during planting to ensure strong plant growth and high yields.

Groundnuts are mainly grown in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal. They are cultivated during both the Kharif and Rabi seasons.