About
A maincrop potato bred by the Scottish Crop Research Institute and introduced after extensive trials. It is resistant to diseases, doesn't bruise easily, with a consistant high yield regardless of weather conditions. It has a classic large, oval shape, with red blushes to the pale skin and creamy flesh, a velvety texture, and works well in all general kitchen use.
About the genus
Solanum can be annuals, perennials, evergreen or deciduous shrubs or twining climbers, with simple or pinnnately lobed leaves and star- or bowl-shaped, 5-lobed flowers with prominent stamens, followed by fleshy fruits
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy, Clump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, except potato crop. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten, except potato crop - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moisture-retentive soil for high quality and heavy yields. Improve soil by adding organic matter in autumn. Draw earth up around the stems as they emerge, to exclude light and prevent the potatoes from becoming green. Water well in dry periods. Potatoes can also be grown in large containers or potato gro-bags. See potato cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by chitting certified seed potatoes (tubers)
Pest resistanceGood pest resistance, but may be susceptible to cutworms, slugs, wireworms, leaf and bud eelworm, Potato cyst nematodes
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), good disease resistance, but may be susceptible to Potato scab and Potato blight, Potato rot, Potato blackleg and stem canker