Sacha Inchi

Overview

Sacha inchi is a fast-climbing vine that produces star-shaped pods, each with several large seeds rich in oil and protein.

History

Native to the Peruvian Amazon, where it has been grown for centuries.

Growing on Kauaʻi

• Likes warmth and steady moisture.
• Needs a strong trellis or fence.

Planting and propagation

• Sow seeds about 1 inch deep at the base of a trellis.

Care and maintenance

• Tie vines to the trellis.
• Prune to keep it from smothering nearby plants.

Role in the guild

Grow it on a sturdy trellis or fence at the sunny edge of a guild.

Harvest

Harvest pods when they turn dark brown and dry on the vine. Crack them open and roast the seeds before eating.

Uses

• Food: roasted seeds as a snack; oil.

Important caution

Always roast the seeds before eating. Raw seeds and leaves contain compounds that can make you sick.

Problems to watch

• Can smother other plants.
• Root rot in soggy soil.

General guidance for Kauaʻi; conditions vary by site. Check any new plant at plantpono.org before planting.