Rough potato
Metaplexis japonica
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. EF1D — Metaplexis japonica
Metaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonicaMetaplexis japonica
IOverview
Overview
Rough potato, scientifically known as Metaplexis japonica, is a member of the nightshade family and is native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, China South-Central, China Southeast, Inner Mongolia, Japan, Khabarovsk, Korea, and parts of Manchuria. This plant thrives in moist environments with light or partial sun exposure, making it adaptable to various soil types such as light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Standing up to 8 meters tall, the rough potato is notable for its edible fruit, leaves, and roots, which are used for culinary purposes. Its native range spans across eastern Asia, highlighting its significance in local ecosystems and traditional uses.
Quick answers
What is Rough potato?
Rough potato, scientifically known as Metaplexis japonica, is a member of the nightshade family and is native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, China South-Central, China Southeast, Inner Mongolia, Japan, Khabarovsk, Korea, and parts of Manchuria.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Rough potato thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions but can adapt to various conditions. The plant grows up to 8 meters tall and is native to areas including Amur, China, Japan, Korea, and other parts of East Asia. Propagation can occur through roots, leaves, and fruit. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist and provide ample light for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Rough potato for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting approach to grow Rough potato as an edible plant.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a garden fork, compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or in early fall for a winter harvest.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep. Transplant young plants in rows, spacing them about 30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and mulch to retain moisture. Watch for signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize with compost every few months.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any dead or diseased parts to maintain plant health. Harvest leaves and roots when needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poor soil, neglecting regular care, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeavesRoot
Edible uses: The rough potato (Metaplexis japonica) is edible and its leaves, roots, and fruit can be consumed. The fruits are often eaten raw or cooked, while the leaves and roots are typically prepared by boiling before consumption. Roots may also be dried for later use.
Other uses:textiles
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
13 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
13 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 13 native· 1 introduced
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Amur, Khabarovsk, Kuril Is., Primorye
introduced:Iowa
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · ef1db61e-b50c-4d94-a287-5416f26a0f4d
Decision aid
Choosing between Rough potato and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.