Red Norland facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Potato 'Red Norland'
Genus	Solanum
Species	Solanum tuberosum
Hybrid parentage	'Norland' x unknown
Cultivar	'Red Norland'
Origin	North Dakota, USA after 1957

The Red Norland is a popular type of potato known for its red skin. It grows early in the season. Smaller Red Norland potatoes are often called "baby reds." People usually enjoy them boiled or in potato salads.

This potato variety came from a potato called 'Norland'. The 'Norland' potato was first introduced in North Dakota, USA, in 1957. Later, farmers found and grew even darker red versions, like 'Red Norland' and 'Dark Red Norland'. These darker red types are now very common. The original 'Norland' potato is rarely grown today.

What Does a Red Norland Potato Plant Look Like?

• The plant is medium-sized with strong, angled stems.
• Its skin is a dark red color, but the inside flesh is white.
• The leaves are medium green and slightly closed.
• The plant has purple flowers with yellow parts that hold pollen.
• The potatoes themselves are long and slightly flat.
• They have a smooth skin and shallow "eyes" (the small dents where new sprouts can grow).
• These potatoes are great for boiling and salads. They are not usually used for making chips or fries.

How Does the Red Norland Potato Grow?

• This potato grows early in the season.
• It can handle a common potato skin problem called common scab.
• However, it can get sick from some potato viruses.
• One virus is called Potato virus Y (PVY). It can make the leaves look wrinkled.
• Even so, the amount of PVY in Red Norland crops usually stays low.
• It can also get other common potato diseases. These include early blight and late blight.
• It is also sensitive to air pollution.