The black heart sweet potato vine, also known as the Ipomoea batatas ‘Blackie,’ is a popular ornamental plant due to its striking dark purple foliage. However, when it comes to its edibility, things become a bit more complicated.
While the tubers of sweet potatoes are commonly eaten and enjoyed as a nutritious and tasty food, the same cannot be said for the black heart sweet potato vine. Although the tubers of this plant are technically edible, they are not typically consumed by humans, and for good reason.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that the black heart sweet potato vine is primarily cultivated for ornamental purposes. Its vibrant foliage adds a beautiful touch to gardens and landscapes, making it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers. As a result, the emphasis is placed on its visual appeal rather than its culinary value.
When it comes to taste, the tubers of the black heart sweet potato vine are generally described as bland and unappetizing. Unlike traditional sweet potatoes, which are known for their sweet and starchy flavor, the tubers of this particular variety lack the desirable taste that people seek in edible sweet potatoes.
Additionally, it’s crucial to consider the safety aspect of consuming the black heart sweet potato vine. Like any ornamental plant, there is a risk of chemical contamination, especially if pesticides or fungicides were used during its cultivation. The tubers of the plant act as storage roots, meaning that they can accumulate chemicals and other substances present in the soil or applied to the plant. Therefore, it’s essential to know how the plant was grown and whether any potentially harmful substances were used before considering consuming the tubers.
While it is technically possible to eat the tubers of the black heart sweet potato vine, it is not a common practice, and they are generally not considered palatable. The emphasis of this particular variety lies in its visual appeal rather than its culinary value. Furthermore, caution should be exercised when consuming any ornamental plant, as they may have been exposed to chemicals that could pose a risk to human health.
