Jicama, Single-flowered dahlia
Dahlia coccinea

Family: Asteraceae

What it is like

A daisy family plant with a tuberous root. It grows 2-3 m high and spreads 0.6-1.2 m wide. It is one of the main parents of the modern Dahlia. The leaves are divided 3 times and are dark green but often with a purple tint. The leaflets are oval and have teeth. The flower heads are clustered with 2 or 3 together. They can be yellow, red or purple.

There are about 30 Dahlia species and many cultivated varieties.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It will grow in most well-drained soils. It needs a protected sunny position. It is resistant to frost but damaged by drought. It suits hardiness zones 8-11.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Central America, Guatemala, India, Mexico (country/location of origin), North America

How it is used for food

The flowers are used in salads. Also they are used in cream, cheese, dahlia dip and sundried tomto and dahlia bread.

Edible parts

Tubers, root

How it is grown

Plants can be grown by seeds or by division.

Its other names

Local names

Chalahuesca, Cocoxochitl, Jicamite, Mirasol

Synonyms

Dahlia juarezii Van der Berg; and several others