Apios americana (groundnut)

Groundnut (Apios americana) is a native, edible perennial vine prized for both its ornamental beauty and its nutritious underground tubers. A member of the pea family, this fast-growing plant twines readily around trellises, fences, or arbors, producing attractive compound foliage and clusters of maroon to purple, pea-like flowers in summer.

Native to the northeastern United States, groundnut has a long history of traditional food use. Beneath the soil, it forms walnut-sized tubers with a rich, nutty flavor that can be cooked much like potatoes—roasted, boiled, or added to stews. Once established, plants return reliably each year and can grow several feet in a single season.

This is a hard-to-find plant and one of our best-selling edibles online, especially valued by permaculture growers, native plant enthusiasts, and those building food-producing landscapes.

Why Grow Groundnut?

• Rare, native edible perennial vine
• Nutritious underground tubers
• Nitrogen-fixing plant that improves soil health
• Attractive flowers and lush foliage
• Excellent for trellises, fences, and arbors

Growing Information

• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial vine
• Height x Width: 4–8 ft. x ~2 ft. (with support)
• USDA Zones: 5–9
• Sun: Full sun to partial shade
• Water: Moderate
• Soil: Well-drained soil preferred; adaptable once established

Culinary Use 

Edible Tubers

Harvest tubers in fall after plants are established. Prepare like potatoes—roasted, mashed, boiled, or added to soups. Flavor is mildly nutty and satisfying.

Pollinator & Ecological Value

• Native plant supporting local ecosystems
• Flowers attract pollinators
• Nitrogen-fixing roots improve garden soil

Why We Love It

Groundnut is one of those plants that does double duty: beautiful on a trellis and productive underground. Its rarity and versatility make it a standout for edible landscapes and permaculture gardens.