The common name of Solanum tuberosum is potato, also known as Irish potato, Pomme de terre, and white potato.
The scientific classification of the potato is as follows:
- Domain: Eukaryota
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Spermatophyta
- Subphylum: Angiospermae
- Class: Dicotyledonae
- Order: Solanales
- Family: Solanaceae
- Genus: Solanum
- Species: Solanum tuberosum
Potatoes are natural perennial herbaceous plants; they are raised as annuals for harvest. They may be upright or sprawling with branched stems and can reach heights of up to two feet. The plant produces underground edible tubers called stolons.
Potatoes are the fourth most significant food crop grown for their starchy tubers. Because they contain the solanine toxin, all green components of the potato plant are toxic and should not be consumed. The sprouts, stalks, berries, leaves, and green skin of the tuber contain a large amount of glycoalkaloids that can affect human health.
Related Links:
- Flower – Parts and Functions
- Floral Formula of Solanaceae
- Solanaceae, Fabaceae, Liliaceae: Family Description
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