Lepidium meyenii, commonly known as maca or Peruvian ginseng, is a Brassicaceae herbaceous crop native to the high Andes of Peru and Bolivia (3800-4500m elevation). It is cultivated for its edible hypocotyl (turnip-like root vegetable) and has been used for over 2000 years. The plant is extremely hardy and tolerant of harsh high-altitude conditions including intense UV radiation, strong winds, and freezing temperatures.
Before sowing
Cold stratification for 3-4 weeks in refrigerator recommended, seeds must be pressed into soil surface rather than covered deeply
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Seeds must be stratified before sowing; scatter on soil surface and press into it without covering deeply. Maintain cool, moist substrate during germination. Keep seeds dry and cool at 60°F for storage - retains 80% germination for 2 years. Seed color affects germination: yellow embryo seeds show highest germination, blue embryo seeds lowest. The plant requires cool climates and grows poorly where summer temperatures exceed 75°F. Avoid excess humidity during cultivation.
Sources: Cultivariable.com, Seed Therapy, Ethnoplants.com, PFAF Plant Database, Happy Valley Seeds, Janampa-Santome et al. 2020 (Archives of Agronomy), Scientific Reports 2020, Wikipedia, Britannica
