CAssava
Common name
Cassava
Scientific Name
Manihot esculenta
Other Common Names
Historical Significance
Cultural Significance
Cooking With Cassava
Yuca with Garlic Sauce / Yuca Con Mojo Criollo
Growing Tips
Plant stalks and roots, vertically or horizontally, in the summer months, April to June. Space approximately one foot apart. It is important to water often, yet the soil must be well-drained to avoid rotting the root. Fertilizer will boost growth, and the plant can reach 20 feet high. The roots can grow long and thick, and some may take up to 11 months to fully mature. Leaves can be harvested as needed. Roots are not well-suited for storage and should be used relatively fresh. The stalk and stem are frost sensitive. Cuttings for propagation should be harvested before the first frost. Roots left in the ground over winter will likely send out new stalks in the spring. To plan a heritage garden, download the ‘Planning a Florida Heritage Garden (PDF).’