Fresh potatoes, scientifically known as Solanum tuberosum, are a versatile starchy root vegetable that serves as a staple food across many global cuisines. As tubers of the perennial plant in the nightshade family, potatoes are cultivated primarily for their edible underground portions. Native to the Americas, wild species can be found ranging from the southern United States to southern Chile. Grown as annual plants, potatoes are typically planted in spring and harvested in fall, depending on the climate. Each potato develops on a specialized underground stem known as a stolon, illustrating that while they grow beneath the soil, they are actually considered modified stems. Fresh potatoes provide numerous health benefits, making them an essential part of diets worldwide, with applications across a variety of culinary preparations, including boiling, baking, and frying.

*Disclaimer: The above description has been AI-generated and has not been audited or verified for accuracy. It is recommended to verify product details independently before making any purchasing decisions.