Ground Bean

amphicarpaea bracteata

Also known as: ["Ground Bean","False Bean","Earth Bean"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Amphicarpaea Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A climbing vine in the pea family, native to eastern North America, known for its unique habit of producing two types of flowers and seeds: aerial and subterranean.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Amphicarpaea
Botanical Name: Amphicarpaea bracteata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded border
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light but prefers bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; adjust for seasonal light changes.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light to avoid leaf burn; protect from direct sun; place in a shaded outdoor area or north-facing window indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage), stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil), or root rot (foul smell, mushy roots).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-drained, humus-rich soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure consistent moisture without saturation; enrich with organic matter annually.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).

Keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent temperatures; monitor for signs of stress.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least one node.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems; remove yellow or dead foliage.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; focus on aesthetic and health benefits.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.

Method

Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry slightly before the next watering.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately during active growth (spring-fall), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration; prolonged cold may lead to dormancy or death.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; protect from frost.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during spring and summer; avoid feeding in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Amphicarpaea bracteata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, water stress, or pest infestations, affecting overall plant health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Amphicarpaea bracteata can result from water stress, root damage, or pathogen infection, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake, ultimately affecting plant growth and survival.

Leaf spots on Amphicarpaea bracteata are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic area, premature leaf drop, and potential spread of infection to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Amphicarpaea bracteata is often caused by fungal pathogens or waterlogged conditions, leading to decay of plant tissues, impaired water and nutrient transport, and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Amphicarpaea bracteata is not toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines if ingested.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Cats can interact with or ingest this plant without concern for toxicity, though as with any plant, ingestion should be monitored to prevent potential gastrointestinal discomfort.
Dogs
Non-toxic

There are no known toxic effects of Amphicarpaea bracteata on dogs. The plant is not considered harmful when ingested by canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Dogs can safely encounter or consume this plant without adverse effects, though excessive consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Humans
Non-toxic

Amphicarpaea bracteata, commonly known as ground bean or hog peanut, is not considered toxic to humans. The plant is occasionally consumed as a food source, particularly the subterranean seeds, which are edible and nutritious.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While generally safe for consumption, it is advisable to properly identify the plant to avoid confusion with toxic species.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Ground Bean plant edible?

A: Yes, the subterranean seeds of Amphicarpaea bracteata are edible and were historically used as a food source by Native Americans.

Q: How does this plant differ from other legumes?

A: It is unique in producing both aerial flowers (which produce typical legume pods) and subterranean flowers (which produce edible, peanut-like seeds underground).

Q: Does this plant require a trellis?

A: Yes, as a climbing vine, Amphicarpaea bracteata benefits from support structures to grow vertically.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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