SafePlants

Ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus)

Ulluco, scientifically known as Ullucus tuberosus, is a fascinating plant primarily cultivated for its edible tubers. It's a staple crop in the Andes region of South America and is gaining popularity worldwide.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is grown as a root vegetable.

Considerations for Children

• This plant is grown as a root vegetable.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Ullucus tuberosus
• Family: Basellaceae
• Synonyms:
  • Ullucus tuberosus Lozano
  • Ullucus kunthii Moq.
  • Basella tuberosa HBK
  • Melloca tuberosa Lindl.
  • Melloca peruviana Lindl.
• Other Names: Ullucus tuberosus Caldas

Common Names

• Ulluco
• Papalisa
• Melloco
• Olluco
• Milluku
• Tuberous Basella

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the Andes region of South America.
• Traditionally grown from northern Argentina to Venezuela.
• Thrives at high elevations, between 2400 and 4200 meters.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Ullucus tuberosus is a perennial plant, often grown as an annual in temperate climates.
• It typically grows to a height of 0.3 meters (1 foot).
• The flowers are hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs.

Ecological Role

• The plant is frost tender, hardy to zone 9 (UK).

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Ullucus virus C (UVC) is a comovirus prevalent in Ullucus tuberosus grown at high altitudes in the Bolivian and Peruvian Andes.

Quirky Facts

• Ulluco is considered one of the most important food crops of the Andean people, predating European discovery.
• The fruit of the cultivated ulluco has been described in literature as non-existing, or as a berry and seldom as a dry fruit.

Further Information

• ResearchGate: For scientific publications, including "Nutritional composition of ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus) tubers."
• International Plant Genetic Resources Institute: Descriptors del ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus).
• The Plant List: Provides taxonomic information.