Wild Potato Vine (Ipomoea pandurata)

Family: Convolvulaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Ipomoea pandurata is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 3.5 m (11ft 6in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

taste like sweet potato but with some bitterness. — The young ones are best, they become very acrid as they get old.; The roots can be up to 75cm long and 12cm in diameter and can weigh 7 kilos.; Roots weighing 10 kilos or more are not unknown.; They are best if given a long roasting.

Habitat & North American Range

Fields, hedgerows and roadsides in dry open or partially shaded areas. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)