5 True Jicama Seeds | Pachyrhizus erosus | Heirloom Non-GMO Root Vegetable

True Jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus) is a warm-season root vegetable prized for its crisp, mildly sweet, and refreshing underground tubers. Also known as Mexican yam bean or jicama, this heirloom, non-GMO variety is a favorite in tropical and subtropical gardens, where its vigorous vines produce both edible roots and attractive foliage. The round to turnip-shaped roots have thin, tan skin and crunchy white flesh that is commonly enjoyed raw in salads, slaws, and salsas, or lightly cooked in stir-fries.

Jicama is a vining legume that can be grown on a trellis or allowed to sprawl, making it a useful addition to warm-climate vegetable gardens. The plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and they require a long, frost-free growing season to develop sizable roots. With its dual appeal as an ornamental vine and a productive root crop, jicama is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to expand their edible plantings.

Plant Features

• Crisp, mildly sweet white-fleshed root vegetable
• Heirloom, non-GMO seeds
• Vining growth habit with attractive foliage
• Warm-season crop that thrives in full sun
• Dual-purpose plant: edible roots and ornamental value

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Pachyrhizus erosus
• Plant Type: Warm-season perennial vine, typically grown as an annual
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy loam; tolerates a range of soil types
• Water Requirements: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged
• Growth Habit: Vigorous climbing vine
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11 (grown as annual elsewhere)
• Days to Maturity: Approximately 150-180 days for mature roots
• Spacing: 12-18 inches between plants

Planting & Care

Start jicama seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost, or sow directly outdoors once the soil has warmed to at least 70°F (21°C). Soak seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to help soften the hard seed coat and improve germination. Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Provide a trellis or support for the vines to climb, which helps keep the foliage off the ground and makes harvesting easier.

Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during the growing season, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Mulch around the base of the plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Jicama requires a long, warm growing season to produce large roots; in cooler climates, start seeds early and use row covers or a greenhouse to extend the season. Harvest roots when they reach the desired size, typically after 5-6 months of growth, before frost arrives.

What's Included

5 True Jicama seeds (Pachyrhizus erosus).