20 Sweet Potato Varieties You’ll Love To Grow

Sweet potatoes have been a staple in many cultures for thousands of years. While sweet potato fries gained popularity in recent years, these versatile sweet potato varieties have long been a nutritious food source.

Ranging in color from purple to orange to cream, sweet potatoes have a rich history. Now grown worldwide, there are nearly 7,000 known sweet potato varieties, making it one of the most diverse and loved crops.

Different Sweet Potato Varieties for Your Garden

Sweet potato varieties are often chosen based on their color, taste, and growing conditions. These varieties can differ in flavor, texture, and nutrient content. Popular varieties like Garnet, Beauregard, Covington, and Jewel are chosen for their suitability to specific climates and soil types.

Whether you prefer a rich orange flesh, a creamy texture, or a purple hue, there’s a sweet potato variety for every garden. Many sweet potato varieties also thrive due to their ability to adapt to different climates, including areas with varying light and temperature requirements.

Some varieties are even grown for their beautiful vines, making them an excellent addition to ornamental gardens. However, it’s important to note that ornamental sweet potatoes are not meant for consumption, as they’re primarily used for aesthetic purposes.

How Sweet Potato Varieties Are Grown

Unlike many other crops, sweet potatoes are not typically grown from seeds. Instead, gardeners use “slips,” which are sprouts that grow from the roots of last year’s sweet potatoes. These slips are placed in water to encourage the development of roots.

After a few weeks, once the roots are established, the slips are transplanted into the soil. Sweet potatoes require a warm, well-drained area to grow and usually take 3-4 months before they’re ready to harvest.

To grow a successful crop, gardeners should select sweet potato varieties that are suited for their specific growing conditions. For example, some varieties do better in warmer regions, while others are more tolerant of cooler climates. It’s important to choose the right variety for your area to ensure the best harvest.

Misconceptions About Sweet Potato Varieties and Yams

You may have heard the term “yam” used interchangeably with sweet potato, especially when referring to the popular orange-skinned variety. However, sweet potatoes and yams are entirely different plants.

The confusion largely stems from a marketing campaign in the mid-1900s, which tried to separate the orange-skinned sweet potato from other white and yellow varieties. This led to the mislabeling of sweet potatoes as “yams,” even though most yams belong to the Dioscorea family, while sweet potatoes are part of the morning glory family (Ipomoea).

Understanding the distinction between sweet potatoes and yams is essential for gardeners and consumers alike. Sweet potatoes tend to be sweeter, with a rich, smooth texture, while yams are starchier and have a rougher skin.

The Nutritional Benefits of Sweet Potato Varieties

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are high in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Compared to regular potatoes, sweet potatoes offer significantly more nutritional value.

This makes sweet potatoes a superior choice for anyone looking to boost their diet with healthy, whole foods. While potatoes come from the nightshade family (along with tomatoes), sweet potatoes belong to the morning glory family.

This difference contributes to their superior nutrition profile. Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which gives them their vibrant orange color, and they are also lower in calories than other root vegetables.

20 Sweet Potato Varieties You’ll Love to Grow

Exploring Sweet Potato Varieties: Orange Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potato varieties with orange flesh are the most popular types you’ll find in most grocery stores. These include Beauregard, Covington, Garnet, and Jewel.

Because they are easy to grow on large farms, these sweet potato varieties often dominate the market. However, there are many more kinds available beyond the common ones seen in stores.

Common sweet potato varieties in stores

Beauregard, Covington, Garnet, and Jewel are well-known sweet potato varieties. They grow fast, taste sweet, and produce large harvests.

These types thrive in warm areas, especially in southern states like Louisiana and North Carolina. Because of their success on big farms, they are the most widely sold varieties across the country.

Why these varieties are so popular

These sweet potato varieties are chosen for their ability to grow in large amounts with strong flavor and soft texture. Commercial farms prefer them since they are easy to manage and ship well.

Additionally, they stay fresh for a long time, which makes them perfect for store shelves.

Options for northern gardeners

If you live in the northern U.S., you can still grow sweet potato varieties even with cooler weather and short growing seasons. Thankfully, some varieties have been specially developed to survive in less ideal conditions like shorter days and poor soil.

These types are great for people planting in containers, colder zones, or small garden plots.

Growing sweet potatoes in challenging conditions

Even if you don’t have great soil or live in a cold area, there’s a sweet potato variety for you. Many northern-friendly sweet potato varieties can thrive in containers or raised beds.

Some are even better suited for gardens with limited space or rocky soil. Choosing the right variety helps ensure your sweet potatoes grow well no matter where you live.

Remarks

There are many sweet potato varieties to explore beyond what you see in grocery stores. Whether you’re a home gardener or just curious, there’s a variety for every growing need. From warm southern climates to chilly northern zones, the right sweet potato variety can thrive in your garden.

By trying different sweet potato varieties, you’ll enjoy new flavors, colors, and growing experiences.

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1. Bayou Belle Sweet Potato: A Closer Look

Bayou Belle is one of the sweet potato varieties known for its deep orange flesh and red to garnet-colored skin. This variety stands out for both taste and resilience, making it a top choice for home gardeners and farmers alike. With its rich flavor and strong disease resistance, Bayou Belle offers a balanced mix of sweetness and firmness that works well for many dishes.

Appearance and Texture

Bayou Belle belongs to the sweet potato varieties with vibrant red to garnet skin and deep orange flesh. Its firm texture holds well during cooking, especially when baked or roasted.

Disease Resistance

Among sweet potato varieties, Bayou Belle is known for strong resistance to several plant diseases. It is highly resistant to Rhizopus soft rot. Additionally, it shows resistance to Fusarium root rot, Fusarium wilt, and soil rot. It also offers intermediate to strong resistance against root-knot nematodes, making it a reliable choice.

Growth and Harvest Time

This variety is ready to harvest between 90 to 110 days after planting. Like other sweet potato varieties, Bayou Belle thrives in warm soil and sunny spots.

Cooking Benefits

Bayou Belle is sweet and firm, ideal for roasting or baking. Unlike some sweet potato varieties, it holds its shape well and delivers a rich flavor. Because of this, it’s a favorite for dishes where texture and taste both matter.

Why Choose Bayou Belle?

When comparing sweet potato varieties, Bayou Belle offers a perfect mix of flavor, firmness, and disease resistance. For anyone who wants reliable results and great taste, this variety is a smart pick.

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2. Exploring the Covington: A Popular Type Among Sweet Potato Varieties

Covington is a favorite choice among sweet potato varieties, especially for those who want a balanced grower with great results. It comes from North Carolina and is now widely grown in places like Louisiana. Many farmers prefer this type because of its reliable size and excellent taste.

A great option for cooler climates

Among sweet potato varieties, Covington does very well in cooler areas with shorter growing seasons. This makes it ideal for many gardeners who live in places that do not stay hot for long. Even when the weather changes often, this variety continues to grow steadily.

Moist flesh and attractive skin

Covington sweet potatoes are known for their moist orange flesh and long, uniform shape. Their orange-red skin gives them a rich and appealing look. Because of this, they are often chosen for their appearance and texture.

Disease resistance benefits

Like many strong sweet potato varieties, Covington resists several common problems. It holds up well against fusarium wilt, soil rot, and nematodes. This means growers worry less and get more healthy crops during the season.

Cooking and harvest time

This variety is perfect for roasting or mashing, making it a top choice in the kitchen. After 110 to 120 days, Covington sweet potatoes are usually ready to harvest. So, growers can enjoy them in many meals after a few short months.

A close cousin to Beauregard

Covington is very similar to the Beauregard variety, which is also popular. However, Covington has slightly darker skin and grows in a more uniform shape. That small difference still sets it apart among sweet potato varieties.

Remarks

By choosing Covington, growers and home gardeners get a reliable, tasty, and beautiful crop that stands out among other sweet potato varieties.

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3. Jewel Sweet Potato: A Reliable Favorite Among Sweet Potato Varieties

Jewel is one of the most popular sweet potato varieties, especially across North Carolina. It has deep orange flesh and shiny copper skin. This type is often what people picture when they think of sweet potatoes. Because it adapts well, it can grow in USDA zones 4 through 12. Even better, it thrives in many soil types, like loamy, sandy, or clay.

Growth and Maturity

Although Jewel takes 120 to 135 days to mature, it is worth the wait. Unlike many other sweet potato varieties, this one resists common diseases. It shows strong resistance to fusarium wilt, internal cork, southern root-knot nematodes, and the sweet potato beetle. Moreover, it grows well in both full sun and partial shade. For better results, use fertilizers rich in potassium and phosphorus. However, avoid nitrogen-heavy products, as they can reduce yield.

Planting and Care Tips

When planting Jewel, choose slips labeled as Russet Crack resistant. These are more durable and lead to healthier crops. Since this type adapts well, it needs minimal special care. Just make sure the soil is well-drained and gets enough sun or light shade. With the right setup, you can expect large, tasty tubers.

Taste and Kitchen Use

Jewel is a great all-purpose option among sweet potato varieties. Thanks to its sweet taste and smooth texture, it’s perfect for many dishes. Whether you bake, mash, fry, or make pies, Jewel delivers excellent results. Because it holds shape well, it’s ideal for both savory and sweet recipes.

Why Choose Jewel Sweet Potatoes?

Jewel stands out among sweet potato varieties for its adaptability, disease resistance, and rich flavor. It’s easy to grow and delicious to eat. If you’re looking for a dependable variety, this one offers beauty, flavor, and versatility in every bite.

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4. Porto Rico Sweet Potato: A Tasty Choice Among Sweet Potato Varieties

The Porto Rico is one of the most popular sweet potato varieties for home gardeners, especially those using containers or small spaces. It has copper-colored skin and soft, light-orange flesh. Because it is moist and naturally sweet, many people enjoy using it for baking sweet treats or savory dishes.

Ideal for container gardening

This variety grows well in containers, making it perfect for patios or small backyard spaces. It also fits nicely into raised garden beds. Since it grows compactly, many gardeners choose it when space is limited but flavor is important.

Moist texture with sweet flavor

Among the many sweet potato varieties, Porto Rico stands out for its moist and rich texture. Its high natural sugar makes it ideal for baking. Whether making pies or casseroles, this variety adds a delightful sweetness to every recipe.

Watch out for common plant issues

Even though it tastes amazing, Porto Rico is more prone to certain plant diseases. It can suffer from fusarium wilt, internal cork, and root-knot nematodes. Because of these issues, growers must take extra care to manage plant health.

Great for baking and cooking

Many people choose Porto Rico when they want to bake sweet potatoes. Its sugar content and texture hold up well during cooking. So, whether you roast or mash them, they keep their great taste and consistency.

Remarks

If you are looking for delicious sweet potato varieties that thrive in containers and offer sweet flavor, Porto Rico is a great pick. Just remember to take extra steps to protect it from disease.

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5. Garnet Sweet Potato: A Popular Choice

Garnet is one of the most well-known sweet potato varieties in the United States. It is grown mainly in California. Along with Jewel and Beauregard, Garnet makes up about 90 percent of sweet potatoes grown across the country. Because of its popularity, it is often found in many homes and restaurants.

Appearance and Taste

This medium-sized variety has reddish skin and a bright orange inside. Many people confuse it with yams, but it is a true sweet potato. Its sweet and earthy flavor makes it perfect for both savory and sweet dishes.

Cooking Qualities

The Garnet sweet potato holds its shape very well when baked. So, it is ideal for recipes where you want structure. Chefs especially love using this variety because of its strong texture and rich taste.

Growing Time

This sweet potato takes around 110 days to grow fully. Because of its reliable harvest and taste, many farmers choose to plant it.

Common Uses

You will often find Garnet sweet potato varieties served as fries in many restaurants. Its vibrant color and firm texture make it stand out. Because of that, it’s a popular choice for both home cooks and professional chefs.

Remarks

Among all sweet potato varieties, Garnet stands out for its taste, texture, and wide use. Whether baked or fried, it delivers rich flavor and a satisfying bite.

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6. Bellevue 

Copper skin color with bright orange flesh in the interior. This is a good type for less-than-ideal soil, as the plant maintains its shape across a variety of soil conditions. It produces well in sandy soils while still retaining its nutritional content. This variety does not taste good right after picking. It needs to be picked and stored for a while before the taste develops. For this reason, make your favorite dishes closer to Thanksgiving using this type.

7. Burgundy 

These red-skinned beauties have a bright orange-red flesh interior. A favorite among growers with sandy soils, it produces well in Louisiana. This red sweet potato has a moderately good yield, however it produces less than many other varieties and takes 90-100 days to grow. You can depend on the Burgundy for a creamy texture and sweet flavor.

8. Beauregard

This fast-growing new variety is a hit among farmers. With a copper skin and a dark orange flesh color, this fast-growing plant produces large sweet potatoes that resist cracking. Requiring about 110 days to maturity, this variety also is resistant to white grub and streptomyces soil rot. Be careful to plant this in beds known to be free of root-knot nematodes as this strain has yet to develop resistance.

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Exploring Sweet Potato Varieties: White Sweet Potatoes

While many growers may be more familiar with their orange cousins, there are many types of sweet potatoes that appear with tanned skin and a cream-colored interior. While slightly different in taste from their orange fleshed cousins these types still make for great baking and frying potatoes.

9. Hannah

The Hannah sweet potato is a standard white variety with tan skin and cream-colored yellow flesh. It is most commonly grown in California and has a sweet and earthy flavor. The Hannah is fairly firm and sweet when cooked but is also fairly dry. The nutritional content of the Hannah and other similar types of sweet potatoes is less than that of its deep orange-fleshed cousins.

10. O’Henry

A prolific variety, this plant matures in just 90 days making it a great choice for people growing in short growing windows. The root grows with a tan exterior and a white color flesh. This sweet potato was developed from the orange flesh Beauregard and has much of its disease resistance.

11. Sumor

Sumor is a novelty variety, it has a light tan tan skin and is almost a yellow sweet potato however it alternates between yellow and white flesh. It’s somewhat disease resistant and able to grow in warmer climates. It has a wonderful flavor when baked and fried.

12. Murasaki

Despite its name, this variety of sweet potato was originally developed in Louisiana. Now grown primarily in California, this reddish-purple sweet potato has a pale white flesh color and has broad disease resistance. It has a wide variety of uses in the kitchen and can be used as a more nutritious substitute to a russet potato with a better flavor too.

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Exploring Sweet Potato Varieties: Purple Sweet Potatoes

Purple sweet potatoes come in two main varieties, either the Stokes purple with a purple skin and purple flesh, or the Okinawa variety that has a white skin and a purple interior. Better in nutrition content than their orange cousins these creamy spuds are smaller overall but still great for baking and mashing.

13. Stokes Purple

The Stokes purple sweet potato as the name suggests has purple skin and a dark purple flesh color. It’s color comes from anthocyanins also found in fruits like blueberries making it very high in nutrition content. It takes longer to bake than most other varieties and has less sugar, although many home chefs say they prefer this. It is also denser with a dryer texture. This is a newer variety that has a very earthy and pleasant taste and has recently been developed to be disease resistant.

14. Okinawa

Okinawa is a Japanese purple sweet potato with white skin color and a dark purple flesh. It has been part of the diet of Okinawans for centuries. Okinawa is one of the regions of the world that eats a blue zone diet, a diet that helps a substantial number of the population reach 100 years of age. This sweet potato has 150% more antioxidants from anthocyanins than blueberries.

15. Charleston Purple 

Similar to the Stokes sweet potato, this small and long variety has a very deep purple flesh and is packed full of antioxidants. This variety is denser and less sweet than more common orange varieties but has a much higher nutritional content.

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Exploring Sweet Potato Varieties: Ornamental Sweet Potatoes

Ornamental sweet potato vines have long been grown for their beauty. While they grow from actual sweet potatoes, these varieties certainly are not food. While they won’t kill you, their taste may just turn you off of actual sweet potatoes for life!

These vines have been bred for their beautiful leaf shapes and colors. Some vines are prolific and meant to cover great areas as a ground cover. Others are small and compact, great for growing in small areas or in containers. Ornamental sweet potatoes can come in green, purple, red or bronze colored leaves.

16. Blackie

A fast-growing deep purple cultivar with a maple shaped leaf, this vine will grow well in warm weather. Unlike many other ornamental vines, this vine will flower, producing a light violet trumpet shaped flower.

17. Margarita Sweet Potato 

This fast-growing light green vine is a great way to quickly cover walls or open areas. If grown in the shade, the leaf will turn a deeper green color.

18. Sweet Caroline ‘Bewitched with Envy’

This bright lite green vine with spade-shaped leaves is a heat-tolerant variety that performs well both in full sun and partial shade. A fast grower, be sure to keep it from smothering small slow-growing plants nearby. It may need to be trimmed back occasionally to control growth.

19. Desana

This multicolored purple-silver vine is a true showstopper. It grows up to four feet across and produces an array of maple shaped leaves in different shades of purple.

20. Medusa

With wonderful maple shaped leaves looking like it’s right out of New England, this is a great addition to an ornamental garden or small balcony or patio. It is very easy to care for needing less water than other varieties and does well in both full and partial shade. Given its mounding instead of trailing tendencies, it would do well in hanging baskets.

Conclusion: Why Choose Sweet Potato Varieties?

There are countless reasons to grow sweet potatoes in your garden. With so many varieties available, you can choose the perfect one based on your taste preferences and growing conditions.

Whether you’re after a colorful, ornamental plant or a delicious, nutritious food crop, sweet potato varieties offer a range of benefits. By selecting the right sweet potato varieties for your garden, you’ll enjoy a harvest that’s both flavorful and packed with nutrients.

Not only are sweet potatoes versatile in the kitchen, but they also offer a healthy alternative to other root vegetables. Sweet potatoes are a great addition to any garden, providing a bountiful and nutritious crop that can be enjoyed year-round.