Solanum tuberosum

The Ronaldo potato is a bold red-skinned variety developed by HZPC for fresh market use. With an exceptionally loyal following among home gardeners in South Africa, it has also gained a loyal following in farming circles for its impressive yield, low nutrient demands and striking appearance. It’s a variety that combines visual appeal with practical performance, ideal for growers looking for both quality and efficiency.

With light yellow flesh and a mixed cooking profile, Ronaldo is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. It delivers a soft, creamy interior with a crisp outer layer when roasted or pan-fried, and also holds its shape well for boiling, salads and hearty potjies. Its smooth skin and shallow eyes make it easy to clean and prepare, while its flavour is balanced and subtly earthy.

This variety performs best when planted into well-drained, fertile soil that has warmed to at least 10 °C. Tubers should be planted 10 to 15 cm deep, spaced 30 cm apart in rows 75 cm wide. Ronaldo matures in the medium season range, with harvests typically ready from 90 to 110 days after planting.

Storage life is excellent, allowing the harvest to be enjoyed well beyond the growing season. Its natural disease resilience, combined with a reduced need for nitrogen-rich fertilisers, makes it a smart choice for sustainable growing systems.