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KNOW YOUR ANDEAN ROOT VEGETABLES

ULLUCO

Ullucus tuberosus

|oo-YOO-ko|

Size and shape of new potatoesFlavor is similar to beet with a firmer textureDozens of varietiesVery beautiful tubers in a wide range of colorsGrows best in maritime climates

POTATOSolanum

tuberosum

The potato is the only one of the Andean root crops to have become popular outside of South America (so far).

MASHUATropaeolum

tuberosum

Size and shape of parsnipsFlavor is like turnip or radish with an aniseed or flowery aftertasteDozens of varieties in many colorsVines climb up to ten feetEasy to grow in mild climates

|MAH-shoo-uh|

OCA |OH-kuh|Oxalis tuberosa

Size and shape of fingerling potatoesFlavors range from lemony potato to winter squashHundreds of varietiesColors in vivid combinations of red, orange, yellow, purple, and whiteEasy to grow in mild climates

YACON

Smallanthus

sonchifolius

Size and shape of largebaking potatoesFlavor is like a mix of pearand celeryDozens of varietiesTall plants look like sunflowersGrows well in temperate to sub-tropical climates

|yah-CONE|

Part 1: Major Andean Root CropsBefore the Spanish conquest,the Inca and the pre-Incan peoples of the Andes developed a unique systemof agriculture, as rich as that of any other continent. Although they originated in a tropical region, these crops are grown in the cooler high elevations of the Andes, which makes them suitable for cultivation in temperate lowland climates. All of these plants can be grown as annuals or perennials in frost-free climates.

SEASON

YIELD

SPACING

HEIGHT

CLIMATE Cool summerMild autumn

1/2-1 LB

7+ months

15 inches

11/2 feet

ULLUCOCool summer

11/2-8 LB

4+ months

15 inches

3 feet

POTATOCool summerMild autumn

1-2 LB

6+ months

15 inches

21/2 feet

OCAAny not very

hot / dry

3-8 LB

6+ months

36 inches

6 feet

YACONCool summerMild autumn

1-12 LB

5+ months

30 inches

10+ feet

MASHUA

SUGGESTED USES & NUTRITION

Substitute for turnips, radishes,and potatoes in recipes that are not friedMakes a tasty dill pickleLeaves are also used as a green

Lower calories & higher protein than potatoHigh in vitamin C

MASHUA:Substitute for potatoes in recipes that arenot friedBoil and cool, add to saladsAdd to stews, soups, roast with meatLeaves are also used as a spinach-like green

Nutrition and calories similar to potatoHigh in vitamin C and protein

ULLUCO:

Substitute for potatoes in almost any recipeSlice thinly and use raw in salads or with dip Stems can be used like rhubarbLeaves can be used as a tart accent

Nutrition & calories similar to potatoVery high in vitamin C and iron

OCA: Tubers are generally eaten raw as a fruit

Very low caloriesSugars are mostly indigestibleHigh in potassium

YACON:

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