Manpukuji carrot

The Manpukuji carrot is a variety of carrot known for its unusually long root. Its name derives from the Japanese temple of the same name.^[1] The carrot was first grown in Japan during the Edo period, and was on the cusp of extinction in the 1950s but heirloom plant enthusiasts saved it.^[2] The roots regularly exceed 3 feet (0.91 m) in length,^[2] and have been known to grow as long as 6 feet (1.8 m).^[3] Germination takes 12–18 days and maturity is reached in 60–80 days. The appropriate growing conditions are "full sun and moist, well-drained soil."^[3] They have a sweet taste and can be consumed fresh, juiced, or salt-baked.^[4] The carrot is a key ingredient in the salad dish namasu, which is commonly a part of the Japanese New Year celebration.^[1]