The peanut (Arachis Hypogaea) is unusual because it flowers above the ground, but fruits below the ground.
The peanut (Arachis Hypogaea) is unusual because it flowers above the ground, but fruits below the ground. Each of the peanut types is distinctive in size, flavor, and nutritional composition. The peanut plant probably originated in Latin America along the dry western coast. Explorers took peanuts to Spain , Africa and Asia . During slavery Africans brought them to North America and planted peanuts throughout the southern United States . In the 1700's, peanuts were named groundnuts or ground peas. Only after World Wars I and II as a result of the peanut's popularity with Allied forces, peanuts rapidly came into demand for oil products, roasted and salted nuts (snacks), peanut butter and candy.