VEGETABLE ‘Yam Bean (Jicama)’ Seeds
Botanical Name: Pachyrhizus erosus
Quantity: 20 grams
Yam Bean, also known as Jicama, is a root vegetable with crisp, juicy flesh that has a mildly sweet and nutty flavor. Popular in salads, stir-fries, and raw vegetable dishes, it is a versatile ingredient used in many tropical and subtropical cuisines. The large, round roots are rich in vitamin C and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any diet. Yam Bean thrives in warm climates and produces lush, climbing vines with white flowers.
Plant Type: Annual root vegetable, ideal for sunny, warm spots.
Plant Height: Vines can grow up to 2-3 meters when fully mature and supported.
Sow When:
- Temperate: Spring and Summer
- Subtropical: Spring and Summer
- Tropical: All year round
- Arid: Spring and Summer
- Cool: Spring and Summer (after frost)
Germination: Seeds germinate best when soil temperatures are between 18°C and 30°C. Germination takes 10 – 14 days.
Depth: Sow seeds approximately 2-3 cm deep in the soil.
Position: Thrives in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. Requires support for its climbing vines.
Sow Where: Directly into garden beds or containers.
Soil Type: Prefers rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Spacing: Space plants approximately 30-50 cm apart for proper root development and vine growth.
Harvest (Root): Roots can be harvested 120 – 150 days after sowing, when they reach full size. Dig carefully to avoid damaging the roots.
The roots are ready when they are large and firm. Avoid eating the leaves and seeds, as they are toxic.