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Potato Varieties

There are literally thousands of different varieties of potatoes grown around the world. In the UK around 80 varieties are grown commercially. Below are some of the most popular potato varieties available in this country.

Potatoes are seasonal and are usually harvested, depending on the variety and where in the country they are grown, from May to October. Potatoes are often categorised according to their season. For example: Varieties such as Rocket or Maris Bard are described as ‘earlies’ or ‘new potatoes’ as they are planted in the winter, ready for harvesting in the spring or early summer. Their skins are not firm and ‘set’ and are sometimes referred to as ‘fluffy’.

Varieties such as King Edward or Maris Piper are harvested in late summer or early autumn when their skins are firm and set and are known as ‘maincrop’. The majority of potatoes sold in the UK are maincrop potatoes; they are usually available from September to May.

Varieties such as Charlotte are described as ‘salad’ potatoes. Their skins are firm and ‘set’ and they have a moist texture.

The texture of potatoes varies considerably. A potato may be described as having a waxy or floury texture and there is a scale of 1 – 10 on which varieties are placed. Where potatoes sit on the scale will depend on the amount of dry matter in the potato. For example a floury potato will have a much higher dry matter than a waxy potato.

These are just some of the types of potatoes grown in Britain. Click on a potato variety to find out what to use it for and when it’s in season.

What’s the difference between Waxy and Floury Potatoes?
Waxy potatoes are translucent and feel moist and pasty. They are good at staying firm and keeping their shape so make great salad potatoes.
Key Waxy Potato Varieties: Charlotte, Maris Peer

Floury potatoes are brighter and more granular in appearance with a drier feel. They're better for dishes where you want fluffy potatoes or for mash.
Key Floury Potato Varieties: Estima, King Edward, Maris Piper, Desiree