Sacha Inchi
Plukenetia volubilis
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Description
Sacha Inchi, also known as Inka peanut, is a perennial vine native to the Amazon rainforest. It plays a crucial role in agroecological systems as a mid-layer plant in food forests, enhancing biodiversity and soil health. This plant is valued for its seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and antioxidants. Traditionally, indigenous communities have utilized Sacha Inchi for its nutritional benefits and as a source of oil. In regenerative agriculture, Sacha Inchi improves soil structure and fertility, providing habitat and food for various wildlife species. It is particularly effective in erosion control and as a cover crop. The plant's adaptability to different soil types and minimal need for chemical inputs make it a valuable addition to natural farming systems. In a food forest, it can be paired with nitrogen-fixing plants like pigeon pea and ground covers like sweet potato to create a balanced ecosystem.
Growing Details
Sacha Inchi thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic compost and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as marigold can help repel pests. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Support the vine with trellises or stakes. Harvest seeds when pods turn brown and dry, typically 6 months after flowering. Store seeds in a cool, dry place to maintain viability.
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
High Protein
Oil
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Plukenetia volubilis</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the Amazon rainforest in South Amer
applicable geo region: Tropical regions
language used: sr
Flowering:
beginning
of September for 6 days
Harvest:
beginning
of March for 6 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of September
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: The seeds of Sacha Inchi are edible and are best consumed roasted to reduce antinutritional factors such as saponins. The seeds are often pressed to produce oil, which is used in cooking and as a dietary supplement due to its high omega-3 fatty acid content. The oil is also popular in salad dressings and smoothies. It is important to note that raw seeds should be consumed in moderation due to their antinutritional content.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Sacha Inchi oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and support for cardiovascular health. It is also used in skincare products for its moisturizing effects and ability to improve skin elasticity. The oil can be applied topically or consumed as part of a balanced diet.
health concerns: Raw seeds contain antinutritional factors such as saponins and should be consumed in moderation and preferably roasted.
other uses: The plant can be used for erosion control and as a cover crop to improve soil health. Its dense foliage provides ground cover that reduces soil erosion.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Plukenetia volubilis
common names: Sacha Inchi; Inka kikiriki; Planinski kikirik
family: Euphorbiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Plukenetia
Growing Conditions
area needed: 1.5 m
spacing: 1.5 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: Medium
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 24 years
life span: 10 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 3.0 m
max width: 1.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Sacha Inchi thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic compost and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as marigold can help repel pests. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Support the vine with trellises or stakes. Harvest seeds when pods turn brown and dry, typically 6 months after flowering. Store seeds in a cool, dry place to maintain viability.
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids and caterpillars. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use neem oil or garlic spray to manage caterpillars. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes.
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