Arachide

L’arachide est une plante légumineuse cultivée pour ses graines, appelées cacahuètes.

The peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is a leguminous plant cultivated for its edible seeds, commonly known as peanuts. Native to South America, particularly northwestern Argentina and southeastern Bolivia, it is now grown in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions worldwide for human consumption and oil production. In Canada, peanuts are primarily recognized as an imported food and a major food allergen, as commercial field cultivation is limited by the climate in most regions.

Classification and description

The peanut belongs to the family Fabaceae and is the species Arachis hypogaea. It is an annual herbaceous plant whose flowers produce fruits that mature underground.

Origin and distribution

The peanut originates from South America, specifically the region between southeastern Bolivia and northwestern Argentina. Today it is cultivated in tropical, subtropical, and, in some areas, temperate regions.

Uses

Peanut seeds are used as food and for producing peanut oil. After oil extraction, the resulting meal can be used as animal feed.

Culture

Peanut is an important crop in many producing countries, especially in Asia and other warm regions. It is grown for its seeds, oil value, and food importance.