Impala POTATO
Quick Overview
- Impala potatoes are an early-maturing table potato variety developed by the Dutch company Agrico, prized for their fast growth and versatility in culinary use.
- Known for their reliability and resistance to certain diseases, they are a popular choice among gardeners and farmers in regions with suitable climates.
- This variety stands out for producing a high yield of tubers in a short time, making it ideal for those seeking quick harvests or even two crops per season in warmer areas.
- Bullet Points:
- Early-maturing variety, ready in 40-60 days.
- Bred by Agrico, a leader in potato cultivation.
- Suitable for both small gardens and large-scale farming.
Origin & History
- Impala potatoes were developed in the Netherlands by Agrico, a company renowned for its innovative potato breeding programs aimed at improving yield and disease resistance.
- Introduced as a variety tailored for early harvests, it has gained popularity over the past two decades, particularly in Europe, for its adaptability and robust performance.
- While the exact year of its introduction isn’t widely publicized, its consistent use in regions like the Volga-Vyatka and Central areas of Russia highlights its established history among growers.
- Bullet Points:
- Originated in the Netherlands, a hub for potato breeding.
- Developed by Agrico for early-season production.
- Widely adopted in Europe and beyond for over 20 years.
Specifications
- Impala potatoes feature medium-sized, oval tubers with smooth, light yellow skin and pale yellow flesh, offering a visually appealing presentation.
- The plants grow vigorously, reaching maturity in as little as 40-60 days, though tubers can remain in the ground until mid-August for later harvests.
- Each bush typically produces 12-21 tubers, depending on care, with a high keeping quality of 95-97%, unusual for an early variety.
- Bullet Points:
- Oval tubers, light yellow skin, and flesh.
- Growing season: 40-60 days (early) or up to mid-August.
- Yields 12-21 tubers per plant with excellent storage potential.
Key Characteristics
- Impala potatoes are celebrated for their rich, pleasant taste, earning a near-perfect 4.9 out of 5 from tasters, and their versatility in cooking, from frying to mashing.
- They exhibit strong resistance to diseases like golden nematode and potato cancer, though they have moderate susceptibility to late blight and scab.
- The variety thrives in light, well-drained soils and is notably stress-tolerant, handling temperature fluctuations well, but it dislikes excessive moisture.
- Bullet Points:
- Excellent taste and culinary flexibility.
- Resistant to nematodes and cancer; moderate resistance to blight.
- Prefers light soils, sensitive to overwatering.
Health Benefits
- Like most potatoes, Impala offers a good source of carbohydrates for energy, along with moderate amounts of fiber, especially when eaten with the skin.
- They contain essential nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and small amounts of protein, supporting immune health and muscle function.
- Their early harvest and low fat content (when not fried) make them a nutritious option for a balanced diet, though overcooking can reduce water-soluble nutrients.
- Bullet Points:
- Rich in carbs, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
- Supports energy, immunity, and heart health.
- Best nutritional value when boiled or baked with skin.