Apios americana
Apios americana (pronunciation: /əˈpaɪ.ɒs əˈmɛrɪkænə/), also known as the American groundnut or Indian potato, is a perennial vine native to eastern North America, and bears edible beans and large edible tubers. It belongs to the family Fabaceae, also known as the legume, pea, or bean family.
Etymology
The name Apios comes from the Greek word 'απιος' (apios), which was used by Dioscorides to describe the Celtis species. 'Americana' is Latin for 'of America', referring to the plant's native region.
Description
Apios americana is a twining plant that grows up to 3-4 meters long. It has pinnate leaves with 5-7 leaflets. The flowers are bicolored, with a pink to brownish-purple corolla approximately 1 cm long. The plant produces edible tubers that are rich in protein and can be eaten raw or cooked. The beans are also edible and can be used in a similar way to common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris).
Cultivation and uses
Apios americana has been cultivated by Native Americans for its high-protein tubers and beans. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, although it prefers moist, well-drained soil. The plant is also used in traditional medicine for its purported health benefits.
Related terms
- Fabaceae: The family to which Apios americana belongs.
- Celtis: A genus of about 60-70 species of deciduous trees, widely distributed in warm temperate regions.
- Phaseolus vulgaris: The common bean, a plant in the family Fabaceae.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Apios americana
- Wikipedia's article - Apios americana
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