Growing Yacon and Oca: Unusual South American Root Vegetables

YaconSmallanthus sonchifolius produces large, crisp storage roots with a sweet, slightly fruity flavour often described as "a cross between watermelon and apple." The roots contain fructooligosaccharides — prebiotic fibres that are sweet-tasting but not absorbed, making yacon an interesting option for diabetics and those monitoring sugar intake. It grows to 2m tall with daisy-like flowers, producing clusters of 5–10 crisp roots per plant. Plant rhizomes in spring, harvest after the foliage d…