Tuber

Species of plant

Ullucus tuberosus, commonly known as ulluco, is a plant species in the family Basellaceae. It is one of the most widely grown root crops in the Andean region of South America, particularly in Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador.

Description

Ullucus tuberosus is a herbaceous plant that produces small, brightly colored tubers. The tubers are typically yellow, pink, or purple and have a waxy skin. The plant has a sprawling growth habit and can reach up to 50 cm in height. The leaves are heart-shaped and succulent, similar to those of Anredera cordifolia.

Cultivation

Ulluco is cultivated primarily for its tubers, which are an important food source in the Andean region. The plant is grown at high altitudes, typically between 2,000 and 4,000 meters above sea level. It is well adapted to the cool, moist conditions of the Andes and is often grown alongside other Andean crops such as potato (Solanum tuberosum), oca (Oxalis tuberosa), and mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum).

Uses

The tubers of Ullucus tuberosus are rich in carbohydrates and are a staple food in the Andean diet. They can be boiled, baked, or fried and are often used in soups and stews. The leaves of the plant are also edible and can be used as a leafy vegetable.

Nutritional value

Ulluco tubers are a good source of carbohydrates and contain small amounts of protein and dietary fiber. They are low in fat and provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.

Related species

Ullucus tuberosus is related to other tuber-producing plants such as the potato (Solanum tuberosum), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), and yam (Dioscorea spp.).

Related pages

• Potato
• Sweet potato
• Oca
• Mashua

Gallery

• Ullucus tuberosus in South Peru
  Ullucus tuberosus in South Peru
• Anredera cordifolia
  Anredera cordifolia
• Young potato tuber
  Young potato tuber
• Sweet potato
  Sweet potato
• Root vegetables
  Root vegetables
• World primary crops harvested area by commodity group
  World primary crops harvested area by commodity group

References

• National Research Council (1989). Lost Crops of the Incas: Little-Known Plants of the Andes with Promise for Worldwide Cultivation. Washington, D.C.: The National Academies Press.
• Hermann, M. (1997). Andean Roots and Tubers: Ahipa, Arracacha, Maca and Yacon. Rome: International Plant Genetic Resources Institute.