Sugarcane

Red, Black, & Green

Sugarcane, known for its tall, sturdy stalks, is primarily grown for its sweet juice, which is used to produce sugar and various sugary products. It’s not typically considered medicinal but can provide a source of natural sweetness. While it can be grown in tropical and subtropical climates, sugarcane’s extensive root system and lush foliage make it a useful addition to food forests as it provides shade and can help with soil erosion control. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions, reaching a height of 6-19 feet, and is harvested when mature, typically during the late winter or early spring. To cultivate sugarcane effectively, it’s important to provide well-drained soil, regular irrigation, and space for the plant to spread.