Abstract
Rhizomal perennial peanut (Arachis glabrata, Benth) originated in tropical South America and is adapted to subtropical and warm temperate climates. Perennial peanut was first introduced to the USA from Brazil in 1936 and has recently shown promise as an ornamental groundcover due to its high resistance to drought, nematodes, insects, diseases, and its minimal fertilizer needs. Cultivars 'Ecoturf' and 'Arblick' are available cultivars for landscape use. The cultivar 'Florigraze' released for use in pastures also appears to be suitable for landscape use. Several systems can be used for planting perennial peanut in a landscape setting. Plants can be established from solid set sod, sod strips, sod plugs, or from plants grown in nursery containers. Comparison of cost when planting solid set sod and containers on 12 to 18-inch centers found solid set sod to be advantageous. Sod provides instant 100% groundcover. Planting strips, plugs, and containers require up to two years to achieve 100% ground cover.
