Contents
Description
Dioscorea Polystachya, also known as Chinese yam or cinnamon vine, is a perennial vine that belongs to the Dioscoreaceae family. It is native to China and other parts of Asia, but it has been introduced to other regions of the world as an ornamental plant and a food crop. The plant has a tuberous root system that is used in traditional Chinese medicine for its medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Dioscoreales |
| Family | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus | Dioscorea |
Appearance
The Dioscorea Polystachya plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and spread up to 10 feet wide. It has heart-shaped leaves that are green and glossy, and they can grow up to 5 inches long. The plant blooms in late summer to early fall with small, fragrant, white flowers that are clustered on a spike. The flowers are followed by small, round fruits that contain black seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Dioscorea Polystachya, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is also important to fertilize the plant regularly with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dioscorea Polystachya is generally a pest-free plant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew, which can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Dioscorea Polystachya is native to China and other parts of Asia, where it grows in forests, grasslands, and along riverbanks. It has been introduced to other regions of the world as an ornamental plant and a food crop. The plant is adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions, but it prefers well-draining soil and regular watering.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dioscorea Polystachya edible?
A: Yes, the tuberous roots of Dioscorea Polystachya are edible and are used in traditional Chinese cuisine.
Q: Can Dioscorea Polystachya be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dioscorea Polystachya?
A: The plant should be fertilized every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
Q: Can Dioscorea Polystachya be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in early summer.
Related Plants
- Dioscorea bulbifera
- Dioscorea oppositifolia
- Dioscorea alata
- Dioscorea japonica
References
- “Dioscorea polystachya.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 17 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a721>.
- “Dioscorea polystachya.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 17 May 2021. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60481848-2>.
- “Chinese Yam (Dioscorea polystachya).” Gardening Know How. Accessed 17 May 2021. <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/yam/chinese-yam-dioscorea-polystachya.htm>.
