Yam bean, Jicama, Mexican turnip

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 1-2 meters tall, presenting Compound leaves with three leaflets, dark green along with White or lavender flowers, pea-like in structure, followed by Pods that contain flat, round seeds. These features are supported by a reliable Tubers, which can grow quite large and are edible, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Central and South America, primarily Mexico, Yam bean, Jicama, Mexican turnip thrives in Tropical and subtropical regions at elevations around Up to 2000 meters above sea level. Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 9-11. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Yam bean, Jicama, Mexican turnip, This plant prefers Full sun and flourishes in Well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a soil pH of about 5.5 to 7.5.

Yam bean, Jicama, Mexican turnip needs watering,Regular watering, but allow soil to dry out between watering, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Prefers moist but well-drained soil, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Deep watering at soil level supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Yam bean, Jicama, Mexican turnip performs best within 20-30 C (68-86 F). Its ideal growth occurs at around 25 C (77 F), though it tolerates ranges from Minimum of 10 C (50 F), maximum of 35 C (95 F). Additionally, maintaining Moderate humidity encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Balanced NPK fertilizer at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Compost or well-rotted manure enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves, stunted growth helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Early spring before new growth for Remove dead or damaged stems tidies its appearance, while Every 2-3 years may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Increase by 2-4 inches in diameter increase and a fresh Well-draining potting mix with organic matter. for Staking or Support. May need support as plants grow tall.

During Dormant in winter, growth may slow and some Leaves may yellow and drop in colder temperatures can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed propagation and root cuttings and provide Warm, moist environment, with soil temperature above 20 C (68 F) when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Root cuttings can be planted in well-draining soil to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisYam bean, Jicama, Mexican turnip problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Aphids, whiteflies, spider mites and remain vigilant against Root rot, fungus infections. Implementing Regular inspection and maintaining good air circulation and applying Organic insecticides for pests; improving drainage for root rot when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Corn, beans, and squash and shows Minimal known allelopathic effects, making it a flexible choice for various Edible landscaping, ornamental tall foliage.

the Edible Parts: Tubers, young pods, and seeds when prepared properly. Toxicty of Yam bean, Jicama, Mexican turnip, Raw tubers can cause digestive upset; must be cooked. learning about its Harvest tubers in late fall after foliage dies back, Eaten raw in salads, stir-fried, or cooked, and High in fiber, low in calories, vitamin C, and potassium can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Traditionally used in folk medicine for various ailments or note its Important crop in Latin American cuisine.

With an Not evaluated, proper Sustainable cultivation practices