Polymnia edulis
Polymnia edulis
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Pl. 5D61 — Polymnia edulis
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IOverview
Overview
Polymnia edulis, known simply as Skip in English, is a perennial plant native to the Andean regions of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in zones 7-10. Skip is valued for its edible tubers, making it a useful crop in its native range. Its adaptability to various soil types and climate conditions makes it an interesting subject for cultivation in similar environments.
Quick answers
What is Polymnia edulis?
Polymnia edulis, known simply as Skip in English, is a perennial plant native to the Andean regions of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in zones 7-10.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Polymnia edulis thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is a perennial that grows to about 1 meter tall and is hardy in zones 7-10. Propagate through tubers for best results. Ensure the plant has consistent moisture but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Polymnia edulis for the first time
8steps
This guide will help you grow Skip as a beginner, focusing on basic care and maintenance.
- 1
What you'll need
A small tuber, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, medium, or heavy soil depending on your preference. Ensure good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Place the tuber 15-20 cm deep in well-prepared soil. Water lightly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist and provide full sun exposure to encourage growth.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and ensure the plant gets plenty of sunlight.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any dead leaves or stems to maintain the health of the plant. Tubers can be harvested after a few years if desired.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:tubers
Edible uses: Drink, Sweetener
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 6 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 6 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 4 native· 6 introduced
Asia2 regions
introduced (2)ChinaTaiwan
Americas5 regions
native (4)BoliviaColombiaEcuadorPeru
introduced (1)Costa Rica
Broader regions
introduced:Hainan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 5d61a149-e9fa-4ff1-8422-abbb37218670
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