Island Sunshine POTATO
Quick Overview
Island Sunshine potatoes are a rare, late-season variety known for their sweet, mild flavor and flaky texture when cooked. They are small to medium in size, with a distinctive golden flesh that sets them apart from more common potato types. Favored by organic farmers, this variety is primarily available in limited quantities at farmers’ markets in Canada and the Eastern United States.
- Rare variety with limited availability
- Late-season harvest (late summer through winter)
- Popular among organic producers
Origin & History
Island Sunshine potatoes were discovered in 1984 by the Loo brothers, organic farmers on Prince Edward Island, Canada, from an open-pollinated cross between the cultivar “Irene” and an unknown male parent. Prince Edward Island, with its rich potato farming history dating back to the mid-18th century when the British introduced the crop, provided the perfect environment for this variety to emerge. Over time, the potato gained recognition for its resilience and flavor, though it remains a niche cultivar today due to its scarcity.
- Discovered by E. & G. Loo in Kensington, Prince Edward Island
- Result of a natural cross-pollination in 1984
- Tied to Prince Edward Island’s status as Canada’s top potato producer
Specifications
Island Sunshine potatoes are botanically classified as Solanum tuberosum ‘Island Sunshine’ and belong to the nightshade family, alongside tomatoes and eggplants. They are round to oblong in shape, featuring a rough, light tan to brown skin with shallow to medium-set eyes and coarse brown spots. The flesh is firm, dense, moist, and ranges from dark yellow to gold, offering a visually appealing contrast to the exterior.
- Shape: Round to oblong
- Skin: Light tan to brown, rough with brown spots
- Flesh: Dark yellow to gold, firm and moist
Key Characteristics
This variety is prized for its high yields, excellent storage qualities, and strong resistance to late blight, a common potato disease. When cooked, Island Sunshine potatoes deliver a sweet, mild taste and a flaky texture, making them versatile for various culinary applications. They are particularly noted for retaining their shape well after boiling, which enhances their appeal in dishes like salads or stews.
- High yields and blight resistance
- Sweet, mild flavor with flaky texture
- Excellent storage, lasting weeks in cool, dry conditions
Health Benefits
Island Sunshine potatoes are a nutritious option, rich in potassium, vitamins B6 and C, iron, and dietary fiber. These nutrients support heart health, boost immunity, aid in energy metabolism, and promote digestive wellness. The antioxidants present in their golden flesh, such as vitamin C, may also help combat oxidative stress in the body, contributing to overall well-being.
- High in potassium, supporting heart and muscle function
- Rich in vitamins B6 and C for energy and immunity
- Good source of fiber for digestive health