The potato is a starchy root vegetable native to the Americas that is widely consumed in many parts of the world as a staple food. Potatoes are tubers of the plant Solanum tuberosum, which is a perennial member of the nightshade family Solanaceae. From the southern United States to southern Chile, wild potato species can be found.

Potatoes are underground tubers that grow on the roots of the Solanum tuberosum plant.

This plant belongs to the nightshade family, which includes tomatoes and tobacco. Potatoes are native to South America and were brought to Europe in the 16th century. They are now grown in countless varieties all over the world.