Carrot (Daucus carota subsp. sativus 'Purple 68')

The ‘Purple 68’ carrot, despite its unusual color, still has its origins rooted in the same general region as other cultivated carrots ( *Daucus carota subsp. sativus*). That region is **Central Asia and the Middle East**.

Here’s why:

* **Origin of Cultivated Carrots:** While wild carrots ( *Daucus carota* ) are found across Europe, Asia, and North Africa, genetic evidence points to the region of **Central Asia (specifically around modern-day Afghanistan, Iran, and surrounding areas)** as the primary center of domestication for the cultivated carrot.
* **Purple Carrots and Historical Significance:** Purple carrots were some of the earliest cultivated varieties. The orange carrot we’re most familiar with today is a relatively recent development, bred in the Netherlands in the 17th century. So, the ‘Purple 68’ carrot is likely to have origins linked to areas with purple carrot cultivation.
* **Breeding and Cultivar Development:** Specific cultivars like ‘Purple 68’ are the result of targeted breeding programs. While the exact breeder and location of its development may not be readily available information, its genetic heritage traces back to the primary region mentioned above.

Therefore, while ‘Purple 68’ is a specific cultivar, it is still considered a type of domesticated carrot. Thus, it shares the same origin as other domesticated carrots from Central Asia and the Middle East.