Puka Ajo Suytu, meaning “Long Garlic of Two Colors,” is a traditionally cultivated Andean potato found commonly at elevations between 3,300 and 4,000 meters. It is known for its elongated oblong tubers with pale pink skin and creamy eye patches, and cream-colored flesh. It performs well in both boiling and traditional earthen oven cooking (pachamanca). Farmers value it for its good cooking qualities and traditional presence in local markets.
Tuber Characteristics:
- Shape: Oblong elongated
- Skin Color (Primary): Pale pink
- Skin Color (Secondary): Cream (in eyepatch-like patterns)
- Flesh Color: Cream
- Number of Tubers per Plant: 12–16
- Yield per Plant: 0.7–1.0 kg
Resistances & Adaptation:
- Late Blight (Rancha): Moderately susceptible
- Frost: Moderately susceptible
- Storage: Stores well over 5 months
- Altitude Range: 3,300–4,000 meters above sea level