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Description
Dioscorea Burchellii is a species of flowering vine native to South America. It belongs to the family Dioscoreaceae and is also known as Burchell’s Yam. The plant has a unique appearance with large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 1 meter in length. The vine can climb up to 10 meters in height and produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The fruit of the plant is a capsule containing small, black seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dioscoreales |
| Family | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus | Dioscorea |
Appearance
The leaves of Dioscorea Burchellii are large, heart-shaped, and have a glossy texture. They are a deep green color and can grow up to 1 meter in length. The vine itself can climb up to 10 meters in height and has a woody stem. The flowers of the plant are small and greenish-yellow in color. The fruit is a capsule that contains small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Dioscorea Burchellii prefers consistently moist soil, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Dioscorea Burchellii prefers partial shade to full sun.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dioscorea Burchellii is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. Ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overwatering to prevent these issues.
Habitat
Dioscorea Burchellii is native to South America and can be found in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. It grows in moist, shaded areas such as forests and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Dioscorea Burchellii indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough light and is kept in a humid environment.
Q: Can I propagate Dioscorea Burchellii from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings in the spring or summer.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dioscorea Burchellii?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dioscorea Burchellii?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Dioscorea alata (Winged Yam)
- Dioscorea bulbifera (Air Potato)
- Dioscorea cayenensis (Yellow Yam)
References
- “Dioscorea Burchellii.” Plantz Africa, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/dioscburch.htm.
- “Dioscorea Burchellii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a526.
