Stokes Purple sweet potatoes are grown on family farms amidst one of North Carolina's most unique, natural landscapes in Stokes County (video).  The climate and soil composition of the land surrounding Hanging Rock State Park and the Sauratown Mountain range produce a potato unusually rich in natural color and nutrients, both of which are retained after cooking.  Reversing today's trend toward global production and processing, Stokes Purple is an exciting new crop which allows rural NC communities to do what they do best―grow and package exceptional products.  Corresponding economic growth enhances entrepreneurship and job opportunities while preserving our natural resources and agricultural heritage.
. Research and preparatory kitchens/facilities are located in Ashe, Buncombe and Bladen counties.  North Carolina State University has contributed to product research leading to Stokes Purple micro-propagation in Nash County and processing in Robeson and Greene counties. Stokes Purple is truly tied to North Carolina―a thread linking rural economic development  statewide.