manihot

Manihot is a genus of flowering plants in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), native to tropical regions of the Americas. It comprises about 80 to 100 species, including shrubs, trees, and herbaceous perennials. The best known member is Manihot esculenta, cultivated primarily for its starchy root.

Plants in the genus typically produce milky latex and have palmately lobed leaves. Leaves often display 3 to 7 lobes, and the inflorescences are panicles. Fruits are usually small capsules containing seeds, although cultivated forms are often propagated vegetatively.

The primary economic importance of Manihot is Manihot esculenta, whose edible storage root is a major carbohydrate staple in the tropics. The root is processed into flour, chips, tapioca, or starch. Some wild species are used locally for timber, ornamental purposes, or as fodder.

Cyanogenic compounds are present in Manihot, especially in the roots and leaves. Cyanogenic glycosides are hydrolyzed to hydrogen cyanide when the plant tissue is damaged. Proper processing—peeling, soaking, fermenting, and cooking—reduces toxicity, and bitter varieties require more intensive detoxification. Inadequate processing can cause acute poisoning; chronic exposure carries health risks.

Cultivation and ecology: cassava is tolerant of poor soils and drought, but yields improve with adequate rainfall and warm, frost-free conditions. Propagation is commonly by stem cuttings. Diseases such as cassava mosaic disease and cassava brown streak disease, along with pests like mealybugs, can significantly affect production.

Taxonomy and breeding: the genus belongs to the tribe Manihoteae, with wild relatives contributing to breeding programs focused on disease resistance and reduced cyanide content. Global production centers on Africa, with substantial cultivation in South America and parts of Asia.