Dioscorea Collettii Var. Hypoglauca
Contents
Description
Dioscorea Collettii Var. Hypoglauca is a rare species of yam that is native to the Himalayan region of India. It is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Dioscoreaceae. The plant has a tuberous root system that can grow up to 1.5 meters long and 20 cm in diameter. The stem is twining and can grow up to 10 meters long. The leaves are usually dark green, heart-shaped, and have a waxy texture. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters on a spike. The fruit is a capsule that contains several winged seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Dioscoreales |
| Family | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus | Dioscorea |
| Species | Collettii |
| Variety | Hypoglauca |
Appearance
The Dioscorea Collettii Var. Hypoglauca plant has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other yam species. The stem is twining and can grow up to 10 meters long. The leaves are usually dark green, heart-shaped, and have a waxy texture. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters on a spike. The fruit is a capsule that contains several winged seeds. The tuberous root system is the most distinctive feature of this plant, as it can grow up to 1.5 meters long and 20 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Dioscorea Collettii Var. Hypoglauca is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. However, make sure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can fertilize it once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Make sure the soil is not too acidic or alkaline.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. However, it can also grow in full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dioscorea Collettii Var. Hypoglauca is a hardy plant that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, here are some common problems that you may encounter:
- Pests: The plant may attract aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. You can control these pests by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Diseases: The plant may be susceptible to root rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and keeping the plant in a well-ventilated area.
Habitat
Dioscorea Collettii Var. Hypoglauca is native to the Himalayan region of India. It grows in moist, shaded areas, such as forests and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dioscorea Collettii Var. Hypoglauca edible?
A: Yes, the tuberous root of the plant is edible and is used in traditional medicine in India.
Q: Can I grow Dioscorea Collettii Var. Hypoglauca indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a well-lit area with partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Dioscorea Collettii Var. Hypoglauca?
A: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. However, make sure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Does Dioscorea Collettii Var. Hypoglauca require fertilization?
A: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can fertilize it once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Dioscorea alata
- Dioscorea bulbifera
- Dioscorea esculenta
- Dioscorea oppositifolia
References
- “Dioscorea collettii var. hypoglauca.” Flora of China.
- “Dioscorea collettii var. hypoglauca.” The Plant List.
- “Dioscorea collettii var. hypoglauca.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families.
