Peruvian Parsnip, Arracacha

Arracacia xanthorrhiza

Physical Characteristics

Arracacia xanthorrhiza is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Northern S. America

Habitats

Cultivated Beds; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Stem Edible Uses: Condiment Tuber - cooked[ 22 , 46 , 61 , 97 , 171 ]. Both long and fine roots and edible, tuberous and fusiform roots emerge from the stem[ 418 ]. Very palatable and easily digested[ 1 , 196 ], the root is used as a staple food in some parts of S. America[ 2 ]. The root contains 10 - 25% starch, it is high in calcium and vitamin A[ 196 ]. It is used as a potato substitute, its flavour is between that of parsnips and sweet chestnuts with a hint of sweetness[ 2 , 183 ]. The sweetness increases in storage[ 196 ]. The root is also used as the source of starch used in other foods[ 183 ]. The roots can be 5 - 25cm long and up to 8cm in diameter[ 418 ]. The roots are harvested in the autumn and have a relatively short storage life[ 196 ]. Leaves. Used as a flavouring[ 177 ]. The leaves are used in the same way as celery in raw or cooked salads[ 418 ]. Young stems - raw or cooked as a vegetable[ 183 , 196 ]. The stems are sometimes blanched and used like celery in salads[ 196 , 301 ].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known