ORIGIN:
A deeper red color mutant selected from Pontiac which was released in 1938 by
USDA and Michigan. Selection was made in 1945 by Weston in Florida.


 CHARACTERISTICS:
A late season variety with round to oblong tubers with a dark red skin which                                                                                                                                       may sometimes be netted. Tubers have medium to deep eyes, white flesh and low
specific gravity. The variety is widely adapted with high yield potential. Red
Pontiac is grown primarily for fresh
market.

 
Plants:
  Are large, slightly spreading with thick stems that are prominently angled.
  Nodes are slightly reddish purple, wings are prominent and double. Flowers are
  large, light purple with white tips.



STRENGTHS & WEAKNESSES:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Susceptible to most common potato diseases. It has an  attractive appearance                                                                                                                                          when cultural management limits production of oversized tubers.                                                                                                                                                    Without uniform soil moisture during growing season, knobbiness and
second growth may occur, particularly on the larger tubers. It generally has
good storage properties with a medium to long dormancy. It is susceptible to
bruising and is reported to have some tolerance to drought. Red Pontiac is                                                                                                                                      known for its r esistance to after cooking darkening.