Overview
Amphicarpaea bracteata is an annual twining vine in the legume family, reaching 1-5 feet (0.3-1.5 m) as it climbs over surrounding vegetation. Slender stems carry alternate leaves divided into three broadly ovate leaflets, each 1-2.5 inches (2.5-6 cm) long. The plant produces two flower forms. Aerial flowers appear in drooping clusters from leaf axils, pale lilac to white, 0.5 inch (13 mm) long, opening from July to September. Separate self-pollinating flowers form near the soil surface and on underground runners; these develop fleshy single-seeded pods just below the surface, the trait behind the common name. Aerial pods are flat, curved, and 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, holding two to four mottled seeds. Roots host nitrogen-fixing bacteria that add nitrogen to woodland soils. Foliage dies back at the first hard frost, the plant completing its cycle in one season and regenerating from seed. The twining habit can smother low plantings if left unchecked, and self-seeding spreads colonies across moist ground. Wildlife eat both the aerial seeds and the underground pods, and the foliage feeds several butterfly larvae. The species occupies the understorey of deciduous woods, stream banks, and thickets across much of eastern North America.
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, from Quebec and Manitoba south to Florida and Texas. It grows in moist deciduous woodlands, along stream banks, and in shaded thickets.Suggested Uses
Used in native plant gardens, woodland edges, and naturalized shade plantings where its nitrogen-fixing roots benefit nearby growth. The twining stems cover low fences and brush piles, and the seeds draw ground-feeding birds and small mammals.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 5'
Width/Spread1' - 3'
Bloom Information
Aerial flowers open from July to September in drooping axillary clusters of pale lilac to white. Self-pollinating flowers form near and below the soil surface through the same period. Aerial pods ripen in autumn, while the subterranean pods mature underground.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
pale lilac to whiteFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-5 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Water & Climate
Water Needs