Pachyrhizus
Contents
Description
Pachyrhizus is a genus of leguminous vines that belong to the family Fabaceae. Commonly known as yam bean or jicama, these plants are native to Central and South America. The name “Pachyrhizus” comes from the Greek words “pachys” meaning thick and “rhiza” meaning root, referring to the fleshy tubers that the plant produces. Pachyrhizus is an important food crop in many countries, prized for its crisp, juicy, and slightly sweet flesh that can be eaten raw or cooked.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pachyrhizus |
Appearance
Pachyrhizus plants are perennial vines that can grow up to 10 meters in length. The leaves are compound, with three leaflets that are ovate to lanceolate in shape and up to 10 cm long. The flowers are small and white or pink in color and grow in clusters. The fruit is a pod that is 10-20 cm long and contains 8-12 seeds. The tuberous roots are the most distinctive feature of Pachyrhizus plants, with a thick, brownish-grey skin and white, juicy flesh that can weigh up to 5 kg. The roots are oblong or cylindrical in shape and range from 7-20 cm in length and 5-10 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Pachyrhizus plants are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of soil types, from sandy to clayey. Here are some tips for growing healthy Pachyrhizus plants:
- Water: Pachyrhizus plants prefer well-draining soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Pachyrhizus plants are light feeders, so they don’t require heavy fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.
- Soil: Pachyrhizus plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but the soil should be well-draining to prevent root rot.
- Sunlight: Pachyrhizus plants require full sun to grow and produce tubers. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce tuber yield.
- Hardiness Zones: Pachyrhizus plants are frost-sensitive and can only be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical regions. They are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pachyrhizus plants are generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Whiteflies: These small, white insects also feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control whiteflies.
- Root rot: Pachyrhizus plants are susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and don’t overwater the plants.
Habitat
Pachyrhizus plants are native to Central and South America and are grown as a food crop in many countries in the region. They are also grown in other tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. Pachyrhizus plants prefer warm temperatures and require full sun to grow and produce tubers.
Question and Answer
Q: How do you know when Pachyrhizus is ready to harvest?
A: Pachyrhizus tubers are ready to harvest when the leaves start to turn yellow and dry up. The tubers should be firm and heavy for their size.
Q: Can Pachyrhizus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pachyrhizus can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Is Pachyrhizus a good source of nutrition?
A: Yes, Pachyrhizus is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. It is also low in calories and fat.
Q: How should Pachyrhizus be stored?
A: Pachyrhizus can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 2-3 weeks. Do not refrigerate, as this can cause the tubers to become mealy.
Related Plants
- Phaseolus vulgaris (common bean)
- Vigna unguiculata (cowpea)
- Cajanus cajan (pigeon pea)
- Glycine max (soybean)
References
- “Pachyrhizus erosus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278742&isprofile=0&basic=Pachyrhizus%20erosus.
- “Jicama.” Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plant Products. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/CropFactSheets/jicama.html.
- “Pachyrhizus.” Wikipedia. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pachyrhizus.
