Smallanthus connatus, commonly known as Yacon, is a deciduous perennial herb native Andean highlands and warm valleys of South America. It typically grows to a height of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) and a width of 0.5-2 feet (0.2-0.6 meters). Yacon has large, tuberous roots and produces small, yellow daisy-like flowers in the late summer to fall, which are not particularly showy but add a modest charm to the plant’s overall lush, leafy appearance.

Yacon is valued for its sweet, crunchy tubers, which can be eaten raw or cooked and are known for their health benefits, including high fiber content and low-calorie count. It is cultivated primarily for these edible tubers, but it also serves as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage. In cultivation, Yacon requires full sun to part shade, consistent moisture without waterlogging, and well-drained soil. It is relatively easy to maintain, but gardeners should be aware of potential slug and snail damage to the leaves. Yacon can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes or from seed, although the latter is less common.CC BY-SA 4.0