Dioscorea elephantipes
TAXONOMY
FamilyDioscoreaceae
GenusDioscorea
Zone10
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Dioscorea elephantipes, commonly known as Elephant's Foot or Hottentot Bread, is a unique climbing caudex geophyte native to South Africa. It is known for its large, woody caudex that resembles an elephant's foot. This plant prefers subtropical climates and has a dormancy period during the summer months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Elephant's Foot
Elephant's-Foot
Elephant's Foot Yam
Hottentot-Bread
Dioscorea elephantopus
Dioscorea montana
Dioscorea testudinaria
Rhizemys elephantipes
Rhizemys montana
Tamus elephantipes
Testudinaria elephantipes
Testudinaria elephantipes f. montana
Testudinaria montana
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Dioscorea elephantipes thrives in bright, direct light and moderate temperatures. It prefers a dry environment and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Maintain moderate humidity levels and avoid overwatering, especially during its dormancy period.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loam soil. A mix that includes sand or perlite can help improve drainage. Ensure the soil dries out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10 during the growing season. Fertilize sparingly, as over-fertilization can harm the plant.Repotting
Repot Dioscorea elephantipes every 2-3 years or when the caudex outgrows its container. Choose a pot that allows for good drainage and handle the caudex carefully to avoid damage.Propagation
Propagate Dioscorea elephantipes by seed or by carefully dividing the caudex. The best time to propagate is during the growing season. Ensure the new plants are placed in well-draining soil and receive adequate light.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Dioscorea elephantipes. However, you can trim any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance.Toxicity
Dioscorea elephantipes is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to avoid any potential issues.Additional
Dioscorea elephantipes is a slow-growing plant that can live for many years with proper care. It is an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens, adding a unique and exotic touch to any plant collection.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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