Ornamental sweet potatoes are mostly valued for their attractive foliage as it drapes down the sides of containers and spreads over the ground within planters. As with other ornamental vegetable varieties, though ornamental sweet potatoes are edible, they are grown for their aesthetic value. Consequently, the flavor quality of ornamental varieties is often lacking. In the case of ornamental sweet potatoes, the tuberous roots are much more bitter than the edible counterpart. If you choose to consume them, follow the curing instructions in this newsletter.
Ornamental sweet potatoes can be overwintered by digging them just before the first frost and storing until it’s safe to plant in the spring. Remove the above ground growth and keep the roots in moist peat moss in a cool, dark room. Alternatively, the entire plant can be moved indoors and kept as a houseplant during the winter. Check the plant first for signs of disease or pests. Cut the vines back to about one-foot and carefully transplant into the desired container. Keep the plant in a space with plenty of natural light until warmer weather returns in the spring.
Cynthia Domenghini, Extension Agent
