Contents
Description
Dioscorea Tenuipes, also known as the Chinese yam, is a perennial vine that belongs to the family Dioscoreaceae. This plant is native to East Asia and is widely cultivated in China, Japan, and Korea. The Chinese yam is a popular medicinal herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is also a staple food in some countries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Dioscoreales |
| Family | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus | Dioscorea |
Appearance
The Chinese yam has a tuberous root that can grow up to 1.5 meters long and 10 cm in diameter. The stem is twining, and the leaves are heart-shaped with pointed tips. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and the fruit is a capsule containing winged seeds. The Chinese yam is a vigorous grower that can climb up to 6 meters in height.
Care Guide
Water: The Chinese yam prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot.
Fertilization: The Chinese yam does not require much fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer can be applied once or twice a year during the growing season.
Soil: The Chinese yam prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal.
Sunlight: The Chinese yam prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade but will not grow well in deep shade.
Hardiness Zones: The Chinese yam can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese yam is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. Pests such as aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant.
Habitat
The Chinese yam is native to East Asia and is widely cultivated in China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and mountain slopes. The Chinese yam is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Chinese yam edible?
A: Yes, the Chinese yam is edible. The tuberous root is a staple food in some countries and can be cooked in a variety of ways.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of the Chinese yam?
A: The Chinese yam has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive disorders, coughs, and diabetes.
Q: How long does it take for the Chinese yam to grow?
A: The Chinese yam can take 2 to 3 years to reach maturity and produce a harvestable root.
Q: Can the Chinese yam be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Chinese yam can be grown in containers. However, a large container is required to accommodate the long root.
Related Plants
- Dioscorea Alata
- Dioscorea Bulbifera
- Dioscorea Esculenta
- Dioscorea Opposita
References
- CABI. (2016). Dioscorea tenuipes. Invasive Species Compendium. Retrieved from https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/17247
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Dioscorea tenuipes. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c780
- Plants for a Future. (n.d.). Dioscorea tenuipes. Retrieved from https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Dioscorea+tenuipes
