American Hog Peanut (Amphicarpaea bracteata): purple Minnesota wildflowers

American Hog Peanut

Plant Info
Also known as:
Scientific name:	Amphicarpaea bracteata
Family:	Pea (Fabaceae)
Life cycle:	annual, short-lived perennial
Origin:	native
Habitat:	part shade, shade; moist woods, thickets
Bloom season:	summer
Plant height:	1 to 5 foot vine
USDA PLANTS database:	Minnesota county distribution map
Spotted in Ramsey County at:	Long Lake Regional Park Vadnais/Snail Lake Regional Park

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Flower:: Flowers are in a compact cluster at the end of a long stem that arises from a leaf axil. A cluster has from a few to many flowers and spreads out as the plant matures. Each flower is an elongated pea-shape about ½ inch long and violet, 2-tone purple and white, or all white/cream colored. There are 5 lobes; the upper 2 lobes roll up on the outer edge.
Leaves and stem:: Leaves are compound in groups of 3 at the end of a long stem and have varying degrees of hairiness. Each leaflet has a sharply pointed tip; the base is usually asymetrical and may be rounded or tapering, or roughly egg to diamond shaped. The middle leaflet is larger than the other 2, to 3 inches long and 2½ inches wide, and has a longer leaf stem. The main stem is quite hairy. This vine lacks tendrils, so the main stem entwines itself around other plants for support.
Fruit:: Green pea pods to 1½ inches long, each containing 3 or 4 seeds, are scattered along the main stem.
Notes:: American Hog Peanut has 2 kinds of flower and seed—the second type of flower is near the base of the plant and does not open so isn't readily visible even if you're looking for it. Its seed is pear shaped, and edible. The peas on the upper plant are inedible.