Potatoes
A staple in diets around the world, the potato is grown in over 125 different countries and in all 50 states within the US. It is believed that potatoes were first cultivated in South America and brought to Europe by Spanish explorers. A member of the nightshade family, Solanum tuberosum, or potatoes, come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes.
Potatoes are underground tubers that grow on the roots of the plant, Solanum tuberosum. Potatoes are from the nightshade family and related to tomatoes and tobacco. Today potatoes are grown in all 50 states of the US and in about 125 countries throughout the world. In October 1995, the potato became the first vegetable to be grown in space.