Pachyrhizus erosus, a multiple-use leguminous root crop for sustainable agriculture in the Caribbean

Pachyrhizus erosus, commonly known as jicama, is an underutilized tuberous root crop native to Central America, with strong potential for expanded cultivation in tropical and subtropical regions.
In addition to its edible tuberous root, jicama is valued for its insecticidal properties due to the presence of rotenone, a naturally occurring compound found in high concentrations in the plant’s leaves and seeds.
This study examined production practices, differences in rotenone content, and potential agricultural applications.
Results showed that jicama leaves contained significantly higher levels of rotenone compared to seeds and pods.
Flower removal was also evaluated as a management strategy to enhance tuberous root yield.
Furthermore, intercropping trials with sweet potato demonstrated that jicama effectively reduced infestation by insect pests such as the sweet potato weevil.
These findings support the use of jicama in integrated pest management and highlight its potential as a multipurpose crop for sustainable agricultural systems.

IV International Symposium on Underutilized Plant Species

I.R. Charles, D.A. Richards, T.W. Zimmerman

jicama, rotenone, intercropping, integrated pest management, sweet potato, underutilized crops

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2026.1460.10