Earth Apple, 'Purple' (Smallanthus sonchifolius)
Regular price $24.95Keep your garden down to earth with Purple Earth Apple, also known as Yácon. The earth apple plant blooms with clusters of yellow flowers, as a member of the familiar daisy and sunflower family of plants, Asteraceae. In native regions of South America, specifically the Andes mountains from Colombia to Northern Argentina, yácon boasts a history of use by indigenous civilizations that lived centuries ago. Just below the soil, a large root system of tubers branches from the yácon, which can be eaten to control cholesterol levels, carbohydrate consumption, and beneficial bacteria growth. It has a pleasant flavor, that has been described as sweet and floral, resembling a blend of watermelon, apple, and pear.
Plant yácon roots in the warmer months for an abundant crop that can be nearly double the yield of potatoes. Established yácon is tolerant of many soil types, but will flourish in a well-irrigated bed of soil high in organic matter and low in nitrogen. It prefers warm growing conditions where there are at least 7 months without a significant freeze. Yácon is becoming more popular as people become aware of its medicinal and nutritional value. As new gardeners unearth the plant powers of traditionally-grown vegetables like yácon, it is quickly becoming a popular choice for edible gardens!
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type: | Perennial Root Vegetable |
| Harvest Season: | Fall |
| Mature Size: | 5-6 feet tall, 3-4 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture: | Well-draining, fertile soil; moderate watering |
| Light Requirements: | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Growth Rate: | Fast |
| Self-fertile: | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness: | Outdoors 8-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+; Grown as an annual or container plant in cooler zones |
| Propagation: | Grown from tubers or stem cuttings; tubers can be harvested 6-9 months after planting. |
Growing Guide for Earth Apple (Yacón)
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Yacón thrives in warm, subtropical to temperate climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 8-11. It grows well in areas with mild winters and can tolerate light frost. In cooler climates, it can be grown as an annual or in containers.
- Soil: Yacón prefers well-draining, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. Slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0) is ideal. Adding compost or manure will improve soil fertility and help the plant produce large, healthy tubers.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Yacón can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun for optimal growth.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 12-18 inches and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant in spring, after the last frost, when the soil has warmed up. In mild climates, Yacón can be planted in early summer.
- Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow room for their bushy growth and underground tuber production.
Watering
- Moderate Moisture: Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Yacón requires steady moisture, especially during the growing season, but make sure the soil drains well to avoid root rot.
Sunlight and Fertilizing
- Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. In hot climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Yacón is a heavy feeder and benefits from regular fertilization to produce large, healthy tubers.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Low Maintenance: Yacón is relatively low-maintenance. Trim back any dead or damaged foliage in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
- Container Growing: Yacón can be grown in large containers if space is limited. Ensure the container is at least 12-18 inches deep and has proper drainage holes.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Yacón may attract pests like aphids, caterpillars, or slugs. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations, and apply organic mulch to deter slugs.
- Diseases: The plant is relatively disease-resistant, but good drainage is essential to prevent fungal issues like root rot. Avoid overwatering and ensure proper air circulation around the plant.
Harvesting Yacón Tubers
When to Harvest:
- Yacón is typically harvested in the fall, once the foliage begins to die back. The tubers are ready to harvest when the plant has finished flowering and the top growth starts to turn brown. Gently dig up the tubers, taking care not to damage them.
How to Use:
- Yacón tubers can be eaten fresh like a fruit, added to salads, or cooked in savory dishes. They can also be juiced or processed into syrup as a natural sweetener. The tubers store well in a cool, dry place for several months.
