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Description
Matsumurella tuberifera, also known as the Japanese potato, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Araceae. It is native to Japan and Korea and is widely cultivated for its edible tubers. The plant grows up to 60 cm in height and has a thick rhizome that produces numerous small tubers. The leaves are large, heart-shaped, and glossy, with a dark green color that adds to the plant’s ornamental value. The flowers are small and unremarkable, and the plant rarely blooms.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledoneae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Matsumurella |
Appearance
Matsumurella tuberifera has large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 30 cm in length and 20 cm in width. The leaves have a glossy, dark green color and a distinct veining pattern. The plant produces small, unremarkable flowers that are rarely seen. The most notable feature of the plant is its thick rhizome, which produces numerous small tubers that are edible and have a nutty flavor.
Care Guide
Matsumurella tuberifera is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if given enough water. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Matsumurella tuberifera is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if the soil is not well-draining. It can also be affected by spider mites if kept in a dry environment.
Habitat
Matsumurella tuberifera is native to Japan and Korea and is commonly found in moist, shady areas such as forests and riverbanks. It is also widely cultivated for its edible tubers.
Question and Answer
Q: Are the tubers of Matsumurella tuberifera edible?
A: Yes, the tubers of Matsumurella tuberifera are edible and have a nutty flavor.
Q: Is Matsumurella tuberifera a hardy plant?
A: Yes, Matsumurella tuberifera is hardy to USDA zones 7-10.
Q: Can Matsumurella tuberifera tolerate full sun?
A: Matsumurella tuberifera prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if given enough water.
Q: What is the natural habitat of Matsumurella tuberifera?
A: Matsumurella tuberifera is native to Japan and Korea and is commonly found in moist, shady areas such as forests and riverbanks.
Related Plants
- Arum maculatum
- Calla palustris
- Colocasia esculenta
- Zantedeschia aethiopica
References
- Matsumurella tuberifera – Plants of the World Online – Kew Science
- Matsumurella tuberifera – Missouri Botanical Garden
- Japanese Potato (Matsumurella tuberifera) – Gardenia.net
