Planting and Enjoying Native Edible Tubers: Apios Americana/Potato Bean

Potatoes, also known as tubers, belong to the geophyte plant group. Geophytes are plants that can retain energy in their fleshy underground parts. This will allow them to survive in a partially dormant state during the harshest periods of the year. When the weather is just right, the tubers will grow rapidly.

Potatoes have continued to be popular as a food because they are easy to grow, propagate and can be prepared for eating in a wide variety of ways.

Now grown around the world, potatoes originally grew wild. It is now believed these plants were some of the first to be cultivated as far back as 10,000 years ago.

If you would like to add an easy to grow native potato to your food garden, you may want to try the Apios Americana, also known as the Indian potato, groundnut and potato bean.

Description -

The edible roots are usually pear-shaped and grow in size anywhere from an inch in diameter to the size of a chestnut; the interior is white with a crisp texture. The tubers have red or rust colored skin with a starchy, yet sweet and slightly turnip taste.

History -

This native tuber is found throughout a wide range of North America -- from New Brunswick to Colorado, and down to Texas and Florida. Native people throughout this area used the tuber because it was very versatile; the roots are edible and are prepared just as you would any potato. Mohegan and Delaware people dried and ground the tubers into flour; the Omaha, Winnebagos, and Pawnee people boiled and roasted the tubers. Native American people shared this tuber with pilgrims, helping them to survive their first winter here in America.

Tips for Growing -

It is best to grow this tuber in a moist environment which is why it is usually found growing wild in marshy areas and by lakes and streams where there is sunshine.

Grow the plants 4 to 6 feet apart and provide plant supports. You can start harvesting after a year, but after 2 to 3 years of growth you will be provided with the largest and strongest roots.

Propagation -

You can propagate this plant by seed, or if you have undersized tubers - replant them

Hardiness Zone -

These plants grow best in USDA zones 4 to 8

As an Ornamental Plant -

This is a perennial winding vine and ranges in height from 3 to 10 feet. During July and September expect to see fragrant flowers that are pink to mauve and pea-shaped.

Cultivars -

There are several different cultivars and related species. The largest tuber with smooth skin is the "Lyra."

As Food -

These tubers can be eaten raw, roasted, mashed, boiled, fried or any way you would prepare potatoes. Add them to your casseroles, soups and stews. The fresh or dried seeds from the plant can be prepared as you would prepare beans or peas.

Nutritional Benefits -

This tuber has as much as 17% crude protein which is more than three times the amount found in regular potatoes.

For more information about native tubers and plants, as well as heirloom potatoes and tomatoes, see links below: