Colomba POTATO

Quick Overview

Colomba potatoes are a versatile, early-maturing variety known for their exceptional taste and texture, making them a popular choice for a wide range of culinary dishes. Developed by Dutch breeders, they are high-yielding and easy to grow, appealing to both home gardeners and commercial producers. They are particularly valued for their attractive appearance and ability to perform well in various climates.

• Early maturing variety with a growing season of about 60-65 days.
• Known for a pleasing yellow flesh and smooth, nearly eye-free skin.
• Suitable for multiple cooking methods like boiling, frying, and roasting.

Origin & History

Colomba potatoes were bred in the Netherlands by HZPC Holland B.V., a leading agricultural company, through a cross between the Carrera and Agata varieties. Introduced in 2011 and added to the Russian State Register in 2013, they quickly gained popularity across Europe and beyond for their reliable performance. The variety reflects the Dutch tradition of potato innovation, tailored to meet modern consumer preferences for taste and convenience.

• Originated in the Netherlands, a country renowned for potato breeding expertise.
• Result of selective breeding in 2011, officially recognized by 2013.
• Designed to suit temperate climates and diverse growing conditions.

Specifications

Colomba potatoes are round to oval-shaped tubers with a smooth, thin skin and a vibrant yellow flesh that holds up well during cooking. They typically weigh between 80-130 grams per tuber, with a starch content ranging from 11-15%, classifying them as a low-to-medium starch variety. The plants are medium-height, semi-erect to spreading, with green leaves and white or lilac flowers, producing up to 15 tubers per bush under optimal conditions.

• Tuber size: 80-130 grams, uniform and market-friendly.
• Starch content: 11-15%, dry matter around 16.9%.
• Yield potential: 230-420 centners per hectare (approximately 23-42 tons).

Key Characteristics

This variety stands out for its early tuber bulking and skin set, allowing for harvests as early as 45 days after planting, ideal for regions with short summers. Colomba potatoes exhibit good resistance to diseases like potato cancer and golden cyst nematode, though they are moderately susceptible to late blight and scab. Their smooth skin and minimal eyes contribute to an excellent presentation, retaining quality during transport and storage for up to six months.

• Early ripening, harvestable within 45-65 days from germination.
• Resistant to potato cancer and nematodes, moderately resistant to scab (6.5/9 rating).
• High keeping quality (95% stability) with no germination during winter storage.

Health Benefits

Colomba potatoes offer a moderate nutritional profile with a low starch content, making them a lighter option suitable for dietary meals compared to starchier varieties. They contain essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, particularly when cooked with the skin on, supporting immune health and digestion. Their resistant starch content, which increases when cooled after cooking, may aid in blood sugar control and gut health.

• Low starch (11-15%) makes them less calorie-dense, good for weight-conscious diets.
• Source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, especially with skin intact.
• Resistant starch boosts gut health and moderates blood sugar spikes when cooled.