Frafra Potato Research

Frafra potato (Solenostemon rotundifolius), which is locally called Persa in Northern Ghana, stands out as a hardy crop grown traditionally in the Northern, Upper East and Upper West regions of Ghana. It belongs to the mint family (Labiaceae) and has the characteristic minty smell with pale violet small flowers. Its tubers are produced in clusters at the base of the stem and are a rich source of dietary macro and micronutrients. Nutrient analysis of the tubers reveal an iron content that is six times more than that of yam and sweet potato with comparable levels of protein and carbohydrate. Coupled with being rich in iron, Frafra potato tolerates drought, high rainfall and common pest and disease problems of most tuber crops.

Despite its unique characteristics as a tuber, Frafra potato has been marginalized in favor of close substitutes like sweet potato and yam. Although of importance, Frafra potato is seen mainly as a subsistence crop and serves as a household food supplement between October and December (Sugri et al, 2013).

There is the need for extensive research towards the improvement of tuber size and the creation of awareness about its nutritional and health benefit. Areas that need attention as identified by Sugri et al (2013), are; breeding for improved varieties for bigger tuber size and the creation of awareness of its health and nutritional benefits.

References

Sugri, I., Kusi, F., Adamu, R., L. Kanton., Nutsugah, S.K., Mukhtar, Z. (2013). Sustaining Frafra Potato (Solenostemon rotundifolius Poir.) in the Food Chain; Current Opportunities in Ghana. Journal of Plant Sciences. Vol. 1, No. 4, 2013, pp. 68-75.