Dioscorea bulbifera
TAXONOMY
FamilyDioscoreaceae
GenusDioscorea
Zone9
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Dioscorea bulbifera, commonly known as the air potato, is a climbing tuberous geophyte native to tropical regions. It is part of the Dioscoreaceae family and the Dioscorea genus. This plant is known for its rapid growth and ability to produce bulbils, which are small aerial tubers. It prefers seasonally dry tropical climates and can become invasive in some regions.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Air Potato
Dioscorea anthropophagorum
Dioscorea bulbifera var. albotuberosa
Dioscorea bulbifera var. anthropophagorum
Dioscorea bulbifera var. crispata
Dioscorea bulbifera var. elongata
Dioscorea bulbifera var. pulchella
Dioscorea bulbifera var. sativa
Dioscorea bulbifera var. suavia
Dioscorea bulbifera var. vera
Dioscorea crispata
Dioscorea heterophylla
Dioscorea hoffa
Dioscorea hofika
Dioscorea korrorensis
Dioscorea latifolia
Dioscorea longipetiolata
Dioscorea perrieri
Dioscorea pulchella
Dioscorea rogersii
Dioscorea sativa f. domestica
Dioscorea sativa var. elongata
Dioscorea sativa var. rotunda
Dioscorea sylvestris
Dioscorea tamifolia
Dioscorea tenuiflora
Dioscorea violacea
Helmia bulbifera
Polynome bulbifera
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Dioscorea bulbifera requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and moderate humidity. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, but avoid waterlogging. This plant can be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical regions.Soil
The air potato prefers well-draining loamy soil. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. A mix of loam with some sand can be ideal for this plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically every 4-6 weeks, to support its rapid growth.Repotting
Repot Dioscorea bulbifera when it outgrows its container or when the soil becomes compacted. This is usually done every 1-2 years. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh loamy soil.Propagation
Propagate the air potato by planting its bulbils or tubers. This is best done during the growing season. Plant the bulbils in well-draining soil and keep them in a warm, sunny location.Pruning
Prune Dioscorea bulbifera to control its growth and prevent it from becoming invasive. Remove any dead or damaged vines and trim back excessive growth. Pruning is best done during the dormant season.Toxicity
Dioscorea bulbifera is toxic to both pets and humans if ingested. The bulbils and tubers contain toxic compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Handle with care and keep out of reach of children and pets.Additional
Dioscorea bulbifera can become invasive in some regions, so it is important to monitor its growth and prevent it from spreading uncontrollably. Regular pruning and responsible disposal of plant material can help manage its spread.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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