Do Peanuts Grow Underground?

Many people are surprised to learn that peanuts grow beneath the soil and do not grow on trees like pecans or walnuts. Below you'll discover how peanuts grow, from preparing the soil for planting to the peanut harvesting process.

Are peanuts the only nut that grows underground?

Not so fast. Turns out, peanuts have been masquerading as nuts this whole time. ... While real nuts grow on trees, peanuts grow in pods that mature underground; other types of legumes, such as lentils and peas, also grow beneath the surface. Additional nut frauds include cashews, walnuts, pistachios, and almonds.

Why do peanuts go underground?

peanuts. … underground, a phenomenon known as geocarpy. After pollination and the withering of the flower, an unusual stalklike structure called a peg grows from the base of the flower toward the soil.