Contents
Description
Dioscorea Seriflora, also known as the Chinese yam, is a perennial vine that belongs to the Dioscoreaceae family. This plant is native to China and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The plant produces edible tubers that are rich in starch and have a nutty flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Dioscoreales |
| Family | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus | Dioscorea |
Appearance
Dioscorea Seriflora is a climbing vine that can grow up to 6 meters in length. The leaves are heart-shaped and can reach up to 15 cm in length. The flowers are small and greenish-white in color, and the plant produces small, bulbous fruits that contain the seeds.
Care Guide
Dioscorea Seriflora requires well-draining soil and regular watering. It prefers a partially shaded location and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Fertilization should be done during the growing season, and the plant should be protected from frost during the winter months. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dioscorea Seriflora is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Dioscorea Seriflora is native to China but can be found in other parts of Asia, including Japan and Korea. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the tubers of Dioscorea Seriflora be eaten?
A: Yes, the tubers are edible and are often used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Q: How tall can Dioscorea Seriflora grow?
A: It can grow up to 6 meters in length.
Q: What type of soil does Dioscorea Seriflora prefer?
A: It prefers well-draining soil.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Dioscorea Seriflora?
A: Leaf spot and root rot are common diseases that may affect the plant.
Related Plants
- Dioscorea Alata
- Dioscorea Esculenta
- Dioscorea Opposita
References
- “Dioscorea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=255039.
- “Dioscorea Opposita Thunb.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60427533-2.
