Over time, thousands of peanut landraces evolved; these are classified into six botanical varieties and two subspecies (as listed in the peanut scientific classification table). You can eat peanuts raw, blanched, roasted, boiled, fried, powdered, or made into peanut butter. Eating them with their thin, papery skin is most nutritionally beneficial, as the skin contains...

Understanding the Context

The peanut plant is unique because its flowers grow above ground, yet the β€œfruit” (peanuts) grow belowground. Peanuts, which originated in South America, have a long growing season. peanut, (Arachis hypogaea), tropical South American legume plant widely cultivated for its edible seeds. The seeds, which are also known as peanuts, are a nutritionally dense food, rich in protein and fat.

Key Insights

Despite its several common names, the peanut is not a true nut. Unlike most plants, the peanut plant flowers above the ground, but fruits below ground. From planting to harvesting, the growing cycle of a peanut takes 4 to 5 months, depending on the type and variety. Compare the heart health benefits of peanuts vs. peanuts, including their nutritional makeup and effects on cholesterol, plus how to add them to your diet.

Final Thoughts

Peanut is a small, annual dicotyledon herb growing up to a foot tall above the ground. It is thought to have originated in Central America, from where it spread to the rest of the world through Spanish explorers. Check out tons of peanut nutrition facts and information from the Peanut Institute for all you need to know about this superfood and why it should have a prominent place in your diet.