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Smallanthus sonchifolius

Yacon

Common names: Inkawurzel, Erdapfel der Anden

Yacon

This description was machine-translated.

Description

Yacon is a plant from the Andes that produces large, juicy-sweet storage tubers. When eaten raw, the tubers have a pleasantly crisp texture similar to a pear. The plant grows to human height and yields an impressive harvest per stalk, but like the sweet potato it is sensitive to frost.

Care instructions

In March, transplant the previous year's rhizomes indoors and only plant the young seedlings outdoors after the last frost, around mid‑May (week 20). Provide ample space, full sun, and consistent watering. Harvest the tubers in October or November, after the first frost has touched the foliage; the storage tubers become noticeably sweeter after a few days of storage.

Companion planting

Good neighbours

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