Most of us call peanuts “nuts” without a second thought, but if we’re being botanically accurate, they aren’t nuts at all! Peanuts are actually members of the legume family. Even though they share a lot of the same characteristics as hazelnuts or walnuts, they have a unique story all their own. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this fascinating little legume.
Peanuts at a Glance: Key Characteristics
The peanut is a bit of an overachiever in the plant world, boasting some pretty unique traits. While they act like nuts in the kitchen, their “personality” is all their own. Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes a peanut, well, a peanut:
- They grow entirely underground.
- You can eat them raw (though most people prefer them roasted!).
- They aren’t toxic at any stage of growth.
- Heads up: They are high in histamine, which can be life-threatening for those with severe allergies.
- They are nutritional powerhouses, packed with healthy fats, protein, magnesium, and vitamins.
Why They’re Called “Earth Nuts”
If you’ve ever tried growing peanuts yourself, you’ll notice they have a lot in common with potatoes. They grow in clusters beneath the soil, and just like with spuds, you can tell the crop is ready for harvest by keeping an eye on the leaves above ground.
To get started with your own peanut patch, all you need to do is tuck a seed (which is just a shelled, raw peanut) into the soil. They aren’t in any rush to grow and they absolutely love the heat. You can grow them in containers or right in your garden beds. My best tip? Start them on a warm, sunny windowsill indoors first. Wait until the end of May—once the weather is consistently warm—before moving them out to the garden.
That Shell? It’s Actually a Pod
While they’re maturing underground, peanuts develop inside a protective shell. In the world of legumes, this is actually a pod, just like you’d see on a pea or bean plant. However, the peanut pod is much tougher and woodier than its cousins. It won’t just pop open on its own; it stays nice and snug until you’re ready to crack it open.
