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Yukon Gold Potato

The Yukon Gold Potato is a yellow-fleshed potato cultivar developed in Canada in the 1960s and released commercially in 1980.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Yukon Gold Potato is a yellow-fleshed potato cultivar developed in Canada in the 1960s and released commercially in 1980. It is known for its smooth thin skin, yellow flesh, and buttery flavour, and is widely used as an all-purpose potato. The variety was bred at the University of Guelph in Ontario and is recognized as one of Canada's best-known potato cultivars.

Origin and breeding

Yukon Gold was bred at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada. Sources identify Garnet (Gary) Johnston as the breeder, with Geoff Rowberry also involved, and state that the cross was made in 1966. The original cross was from Norgleam and W5279-4.

Physical characteristics

The cultivar is described as medium to large with smooth, thin skin and yellow to gold flesh. It is also commonly noted for shallow eyes and a creamy texture when cooked.

Culinary use

Yukon Gold is widely treated as an all-purpose potato. It is commonly used for boiling, salads, mashing, roasting, and similar preparations.

Canadian significance

Canadian sources describe Yukon Gold as one of the best-known potato varieties developed in Canada. It is closely associated with the University of Guelph and Canadian plant breeding.

Key facts

  • Developed in Guelph, Ontario, by Gary Johnston at the University of Guelph.
  • The original cross was made in 1966 from Norgleam and W5279-4.
  • It was registered in Canada in 1980 and released commercially that year.
  • The variety is noted for yellow flesh, smooth thin skin, and a buttery taste.
  • It is considered an all-purpose potato suited to boiling, salads, and mashing.
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Canadian context

Yukon Gold is a notable Canadian plant-breeding success, developed at the University of Guelph in Ontario and registered in Canada in 1980.[2][3]

Frequently asked questions

What is a Yukon Gold Potato?
A Yukon Gold Potato is a yellow-fleshed potato cultivar developed in Canada and released commercially in 1980.
Who developed Yukon Gold potatoes?
It was developed by Garnet (Gary) Johnston at the University of Guelph, with additional involvement from Geoff Rowberry and Canadian agricultural institutions.
What are Yukon Gold potatoes used for?
They are commonly used as an all-purpose potato, especially for boiling, salads, mashing, and roasting.
When were Yukon Gold potatoes first bred?
The original cross was made in 1966, and the variety was released commercially in 1980.
Why are Yukon Gold potatoes popular?
They are valued for their yellow flesh, smooth skin, creamy texture, and buttery flavour.

References

  1. Potatopedia — https://potatopedia.com/varieties/yukon-gold
    Supports: Variety profile, breeder, parentage, release year, and culinary uses.
  2. Canadian Food Inspection Agency — https://inspection.canada.ca/en/plant-health/potatoes/potato-varieties/yukon-gold
    Supports: Origin and breeding, year registered in Canada, and storability.
  3. University of Guelph — https://www.plant.uoguelph.ca/news/yukon-gold-potato-reinventing-potato
    Supports: Development history, breeder, naming, and significance.