Contents
Description
Smallanthus Sonchifolius, commonly known as Yacon, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Andes Mountains of South America, particularly in countries such as Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. The plant is grown for its edible tubers, which are used as a natural sweetener and a source of inulin, a dietary fiber.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Smallanthus |
Appearance
The Yacon plant can grow up to six feet tall and has large leaves that can measure up to 1 foot in length. The leaves are green and lance-shaped, with a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall.The edible tubers of the Yacon plant are elongated and can grow up to 8 inches long. They have a brownish skin and a white, crunchy flesh that tastes similar to a pear or an apple. The tubers contain high levels of fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a type of sugar that is not absorbed by the body, making them a healthy alternative to traditional sweeteners.
Care Guide
Water: The Yacon plant requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the plant regularly, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization, particularly during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.Soil: The Yacon plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow properly. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The Yacon plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yacon plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. To prevent this, make sure that the soil is well-draining and does not become waterlogged.
Habitat
The Yacon plant is native to the Andes Mountains of South America, where it grows in cool, high-altitude regions. It is typically found in mountainous areas with well-draining soil and consistent moisture.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Yacon plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Yacon plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.Q: How long does it take for the Yacon plant to produce tubers?
A: The Yacon plant typically produces tubers after 6 to 8 months of growth.Q: Is the Yacon plant drought-tolerant?
A: No, the Yacon plant requires consistent moisture and is not tolerant of drought.Q: How should the Yacon plant be harvested?
A: The Yacon plant should be harvested in the fall after the foliage has died back. Dig up the tubers carefully, being careful not to damage them.
Related Plants
– Dahlia- Sunflower- Dandelion
References
– “Smallanthus sonchifolius.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281009&isprofile=0& – “Yacon – Smallanthus sonchifolius.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mv150
