1-152-548 - Ann Ronan Picture Library/Heritage-Images

Potato, 1640. The Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is native to South America. Introduced into Europe in the 16th century by the Spanish, it had become a major food crop by the end of the 17th century. Woodcut showing foliage, flowers, fruit and underground tubers, from Theatrum Botanicum by John Parkinson. (London, 1640).