Dataset for: Catalogue-Based Morphological and Agronomic Characterization of Native Potatoes in Paucartambo, Cusco, Peru

During 2024 and 2025, a continuous participatory process was implemented in the province of Paucartambo (Cusco, Peru), aimed at the monitoring and integrated conservation of agrobiodiversity, with a particular focus on native potato varieties maintained within highland smallholder farming systems. Through field evaluations conducted over two consecutive agricultural seasons, and in coordination with farmer custodians from localities such as Jailo, Cochachochayocc, Huancarani, and Totorani, among others, a total of 421 native potato varieties were characterised. Morphological characterisation was carried out through participatory field sessions using standardised descriptors developed by the International Potato Center (CIP), assessing traits related to plant architecture, leaves, stems, flowering, pigmentation, fruiting, and tuber morphology. In addition, productive, physiological, and nutritional variables were recorded, together with qualitative information derived from local knowledge, including culinary uses, cooking time, perceived tolerance to climatic stresses, resistance to late blight, varietal category, perceived age, and perceived abundance. The process actively involved farmer custodians and local stakeholders, strengthening knowledge co-production and generating a systematic photographic record that supports the development of a local catalogue of native potato varieties.