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Plant Identification Learning Module:
Vegetables

Potato, Sweet (Ipomoea batatas)

The plant is a trailing vine with heart-shaped or deeply notched, glossy green leaves that may have a reddish tint. Prominent veins radiate out from the base of the leaf. The edible roots vary in shape from long, slender to round with most being pointed at one or both ends. Because the sweet potato is a root (not a modified stem like Irish potato), it lacks "eyes" or buds on the outer surface. Root color may be cream, red, yellow, or purple. Flowers are funnel-shaped and lavender with a deeper throat.