Yacon, Cajamarca

Yacon information and growing instructions

Cajamarca is a Peruvian variety.  Tan tubers streaked with red/purple, becoming much redder after exposure. The tubers are some of the largest that we see and they are fairly sweet even at harvest.  In my opinion, this is the most attractive of any of the heirloom yacons and a good choice for an edible ornamental.  Cajamarca has the largest leaves of any of the varieties that we grow and the foliage fills out more than the other varieties.  A bit later maturing than most varieties, so probably not the best choice for short season climates.  Medium height, reaching about six feet here, although it can grow taller with a long enough growing season.

Cajamarca is a poor producer of true seed and a late flowerer, at about 180 days.  It isn’t the most promising variety for breeding, but we have gotten some good varieties out of Cajamarca crosses.

This variety goes by a number of different names, including Cusco and OE.

What you will receive:

Rhizome

You will receive the stated number of rhizome pieces, packed in damp peat. Cajamarca has intermediate rhizome density, which usually allows for smaller cuts and better propagule life.  You should keep packets refrigerated and check them periodically to make sure that the exposed cuts are not molding. If mold develops, cut back to clean flesh and plant or pot as soon as possible. Rhizome does not store well, so it is always better to plant it than to store it if you can.

Seeds

Seeds are open pollinated. Because yacon is a polyploid hybrid, the seeds will not grow true to type. They are suitable for use in breeding or conservation efforts and could be used to select varieties similar to the parent type.