Maapähklitaime

Maapähklitaime, scientifically known as Arachis hypogaea, is a legume crop grown not for its aerial foliage but for its edible seeds. Originating from South America, likely in the region of Bolivia, it is now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The plant is characterized by its pinnately compound leaves and yellow flowers that self-pollinate.

A unique aspect of the maapähklitaime is its geocarpy. After pollination, the flower stalk elongates and bends downwards, pushing the developing pod into the soil. There, the ovary matures into the peanut pod, which typically contains one to four seeds. This subterranean development protects the developing fruit from many predators and environmental stresses.

Maapähklitaime is a significant agricultural commodity, prized for its oil-rich seeds, which are a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, including niacin, folate, and vitamin E. Peanuts are consumed in numerous forms, such as roasted, boiled, or as peanut butter. The plants are also used for fodder and to improve soil fertility due to their nitrogen-fixing capabilities. Harvesting involves digging up the entire plant to retrieve the pods from the soil.