Yacon, Blanco (Early White)

We previously offered this variety as ‘Early White,’ but we have since concluded that it is the same as ‘Blanco,’ which is a longer standing name.

Blanco is one of the two most common varieties in North America and has been in circulation since the mid-1990s at least.  Tan tubers develop a little bit of red blushing with long exposure.  Flesh is white and moderately sweet.

The plants are medium-tall (about six feet here), with red stems.  This variety has moderate dormancy and will last for 2-3 months without significant sprouting at 38 F. 

This variety is a very poor producer of true seeds and produces no noticeable pollen.  Flowering is intermediate, at about 170 days.  Not a promising variety for breeding work.

What you will receive:

Rhizome

You will receive the stated number of rhizome pieces, packed in damp peat. Blanco has intermediate rhizome sprout density, so propagules can be fairly small. 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.