What Part of a Plant is Potato?

Introduction

When we think of potato, we usually picture a round, starchy, tuberous vegetable that we like to eat. But have you ever wondered what part of the plant a potato comes from? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question.

The Potato Plant

Potatoes come from a plant called Solanum tuberosum. The plant belongs to the nightshade family of flowering plants and is native to South America. The potato plant has a stem, leaves, roots, and underground tubers. The stem of the potato plant is green and covered with leaves. The leaves of the plant are green, leafy, and shaped like a heart.

The Tuberous Roots of Potato

The underground part of the potato plant that we eat is called a tuberous root. Tuberous roots are a type of storage root that plants use to store food reserves. In the case of the potato plant, the tuberous roots are enlarged, fleshy, and starchy. These tubers are usually located deep in the soil and grow underground, away from the light. The tuberous roots of the potato plant are edible and are used to make potato chips, French fries, and other delicious potato dishes.

The Uses of Potato Plant

Potato plants are not just used for food. The leaves and stem of the potato plant are also used for medicinal purposes. The leaves of the plant are used to treat skin diseases, while the stem is used to treat fever, coughs, and asthma. The potato plant is also used in the production of alcohol, starch, and dyes. The starch extracted from the tuberous roots of the potato plant is used in the manufacturing of paper, textiles, and other products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the part of the potato plant that we eat is the tuberous root. The potato plant belongs to the nightshade family of plants and is native to South America. The tuberous roots of the potato plant are edible and are used in a variety of delicious potato dishes. But the potato plant is not just a source of food. Its leaves and stems are also used for medicinal purposes, and its starch is used in the production of various products.