Mashua, also known as Tropaeolum tuberosum, is a tuberous plant that is not only celebrated for its vibrant, ornamental flowers but also for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Native to the Andes Mountains, mashua has been cultivated by indigenous communities for centuries. This tuber is gaining popularity worldwide for its versatility and health benefits mashua. Here’s a guide to the top five varieties of mashua that you might consider adding to your garden or dinner table.
1. Red Mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum var. pilifera)
Red mashua is distinguished by its striking red tubers and deep orange-red flowers. It is one of the most common varieties grown in the Andes. The tubers have a slightly peppery taste, similar to radishes, and are often eaten cooked, which softens their pungency. This variety is not only a culinary delight but also reputed for its high antioxidant content, making it a healthy addition to any diet.
2. Yellow Mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum var. lineamaculata)
Characterized by its vibrant yellow tubers and matching yellow flowers with fine red lines, the yellow mashua is a milder option compared to its red counterpart. Its slightly sweet and less spicy flavor makes it a preferred choice for salads and stews. In addition to its culinary uses, yellow mashua is often planted as a companion crop to deter pests with its strong scent, protecting neighboring plants.
3. White Mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum ‘White Beauty’)
White mashua tubers are cream-colored with a delicate taste that is less spicy than other varieties. They are excellent for use in dishes where a milder flavor is desired. The white blossoms of this variety are particularly attractive, making it a popular ornamental plant as well. White mashua is also noted for its adaptability to various soil types and climatic conditions.
4. Black Mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum ‘Black Magic’)
Black mashua is a rarer variety, featuring dark purple to almost black tubers. This variety is renowned not only for its unique color but also for its slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It stands out in dishes like roasts and purees where its rich hue can make a visual impact. Nutritionally, black mashua is a powerhouse, packed with anthocyanins and other beneficial antioxidants.
5. Variegated Mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum ‘Variegata’)
The variegated mashua is an eye-catching variety with multicolored tubers that feature a mix of yellow, red, and even pink hues. The flowers too are beautifully variegated, making this variety as ornamental as it is edible. Its tubers offer a blend of spicy and sweet flavors, suitable for a range of culinary uses from baking to boiling.
Culinary Tips and Growing Advice
Mashua tubers can be cooked in a variety of ways, similar to potatoes. They are excellent boiled, baked, or mashed. For those looking to incorporate mashua into their diet, it’s advisable to start with the milder yellow or white varieties.
Growing mashua is relatively straightforward. It prefers cool temperatures and can tolerate poor soil conditions. Plant the tubers in early spring in a sunny to partly shaded location. Mashua plants can be quite vigorous, climbing or sprawling, so providing support like a trellis will help manage their growth. Not only will you enjoy their tubers come harvest time, but their flowers will also attract pollinators to your garden throughout the growing season.
