Starchy tropical tubers are a type of root vegetable that are grown in tropical climates. Two examples of these are TARO (4 letters) and YAM (3 letters). TARO is a starchy, slightly sweet root vegetable with a rough, brown skin and white flesh. It is a staple food in many parts of the world, including Southeast Asia, India, and Africa. YAM is a starchy, sweet root vegetable with a rough, brown skin and white, yellow, or purple flesh. It is a popular food in many parts of the world, including Africa, the Caribbean, and South America.