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Vigna subterranea
Vigna subterranea
Vigna subterranea, the Bambara groundnut, is a legume crop cultivated primarily in Africa. It is a drought-tolerant plant, producing edible seeds underground, similar to peanuts. It is valued for its nutritional content and ability to grow in poor soils.
CategoryDetails
Culinary UsageEdible plant
Medicinal UsageMedicinal Usage
Duration to maturity4 months to harvest
Estimated Plant Lifespan1 year lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Pollination

Method: self pollination

Notes: Bambara groundnut is primarily self-pollinating, but insects can also assist with pollination.

Watering Requirements

Method: Top water

Frequency: Water regularly, especially during flowering and pod development. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Notes: Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate

Temperature Range

Min: 20°C

Max: 35°C

Alternative NamesVoandzeia subterranea, Cryptolobus subterraneus, Glycine subterranea, Tetrodea subterranea, Arachidna trifolia, Arachis africana, Cryptolobus africanus, Geolobus flavus, Vigna subterranea spontanea, Voandzeia subterranea f spontanea, Voandzeia subterranea spontanea
Zea mays
Maize
Zea mays
Corn provides a natural trellis for the Bambara groundnut to climb, improving air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Phaseolus vulgaris
Common Bean
Phaseolus vulgaris
Beans can help fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting the Bambara groundnut which also requires nitrogen for healthy growth.
Cynodon dactylon
Bermuda grass
Cynodon dactylon

Bermuda grass is a very aggressive grass that can quickly spread and outcompete Bambara groundnut for resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients.

Sorghum halepense
Johnson grass
Sorghum halepense

Johnson grass grows rapidly and can overshadow Bambara groundnut, reducing its access to sunlight and nutrients.

Aphids

Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. They secrete honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold growth.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that create webs on the undersides of leaves. They feed on plant sap, causing leaves to become speckled, yellowed, and eventually die.

Bean Beetles

Bean beetles (also known as bean weevils) are a common pest of bean crops. They feed on the leaves, flowers, and pods, causing damage that can reduce yields. The larvae burrow into the seeds, making them unmarketable.

Steps:

    • Soak the Bambara groundnut seeds in water for 24 hours to improve germination rates.
    • Plant the seeds directly into well-draining soil at a depth of about 2-3 cm.
    • Ensure the soil temperature is between 25-30°C for optimal germination.
    • Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, until seedlings emerge.
    • Thin seedlings to allow sufficient spacing for growth, typically about 20-30 cm apart.

Neem Oil

Effective natural insecticide and fungicide for controlling aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases.

Diatomaceous Earth

Natural pest control for crawling insects like bean beetles; it dehydrates them upon contact.

Seaweed Extract

Natural fertilizer that can improve plant health and resistance to pests and diseases.