Pachyrhizus tuberosus
Pachyrhizus tuberosusfam. Fabaceae
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Pl. A982 — Pachyrhizus tuberosus
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IOverview
Overview
Pachyrhizus tuberosus, commonly known as jícama or yam bean, is a perennial vine native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture, growing up to 6 meters tall. It is valued for its edible root and seedpods, which can be eaten raw or cooked. The roots are crunchy and mild-flavored, often used in salads or stir-fries, while the seedpods are prepared by boiling or frying. Jícama's distinctive feature includes large, heart-shaped leaves that provide a lush, vine-like appearance, making it an ornamental choice in gardens as well. This plant is cultivated for its pest control and nitrogen-fixing abilities, contributing to soil health. It has been introduced into various regions including Bolivia, Brazil (North, Southeast, West-Central), Haiti, India, Jamaica, New Caledonia, Puerto Rico, Sri Lanka, and Trinidad-Tobago. In its native range and beyond, Pachyrhizus tuberosus is appreciated for both its culinary uses and its ornamental value in gardens.
Quick answers
What is Pachyrhizus tuberosus?
Pachyrhizus tuberosus, commonly known as jícama or yam bean, is a perennial vine native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture, growing up to 6 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Pachyrhizus tuberosus thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture. This perennial vine can grow up to 6 meters tall and is hardy in zones 9-11, making it suitable for warm climates. For propagation, gardeners can use root or seedpod cuttings. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
9-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb, Vine
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Pachyrhizus tuberosus for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic soil preparation for your first Skip plant.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip seeds or seedlings, garden tools, compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in late spring after the last frost, when temperatures are consistently warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. For containers, use a pot at least 30 cm deep with good drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 2-3 cm deep in rows 60 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two true leaves and the soil is warm.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide light shade if temperatures are very high to prevent leaf scorch.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize with compost tea every 4-6 weeks. Support vines with stakes or trellises.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune vines to encourage more root growth and prevent overcrowding. Harvest roots when they are the size of a chicken egg, usually after 3 months.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting support for climbing vines.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:RootSeedpod
Edible uses: The root and seedpods of Pachyrhizus tuberosus are edible. Roots can be eaten raw or cooked, while seedpods are often prepared by boiling or frying. Both parts add a crunchy texture to dishes.
Other uses:Pest controlNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 11 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 11 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 3 native· 11 introduced
Asia2 regions
introduced (2)IndiaSri Lanka
Americas7 regions
native (3)ColombiaEcuadorVenezuela
introduced (4)BoliviaHaitiJamaicaPuerto Rico
Oceania1 region
introduced (1)New Caledonia
Broader regions
introduced:Brazil North, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central, Trinidad-Tobago
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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