Dioscorea esculenta
TAXONOMY
FamilyDioscoreaceae
GenusDioscorea
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Dioscorea esculenta, commonly known as lesser yam, is a climbing tuberous geophyte native to seasonally dry tropical climates. It belongs to the family Dioscoreaceae and the genus Dioscorea. This plant is known for its edible tubers, which are a staple food in many tropical regions. It undergoes a dormancy period of about three months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Lesser Yam
Oncorhiza Esculentus
Oncus Esculentus
Dioscorea aculeata
Dioscorea aculeata var. spinosa
Dioscorea esculenta var. esculenta
Dioscorea esculenta var. fasciculata
Dioscorea esculenta var. fulvido-tomentosa
Dioscorea esculenta var. spinosa
Dioscorea esculenta var. tiliifolia
Dioscorea fasciculata
Dioscorea fasciculata var. spinosa
Dioscorea papillaris
Dioscorea papuana
Dioscorea spinosa
Dioscorea tiliifolia
Dioscorea tugui
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD3,600
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Dioscorea esculenta 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, and ensure it has good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.Harvest
Dioscorea esculenta, commonly known as lesser yam, is typically ready for harvest about 8 months after planting. The harvest period usually falls in the dry season when the aerial parts of the plant start to wither. To harvest, carefully dig around the base of the plant to avoid damaging the tubers. The tubers should be lifted gently from the soil, cleaned, and stored in a cool, dry place. It is important to handle the tubers with care to prevent bruising, which can lead to spoilage.Soil
The plant prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil is loose and rich in organic matter to support tuber development. Avoid waterlogged conditions as they can cause root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and tuber development.Repotting
Repot Dioscorea esculenta when the tubers outgrow their container, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a larger pot with good drainage, and handle the tubers carefully to avoid damage.Propagation
Propagate the plant by dividing the tubers during the dormant period. Ensure each division has at least one growth bud. Plant the divisions in well-draining soil and water sparingly until new growth appears.Pruning
Prune the plant to control its climbing growth and remove any dead or damaged leaves. Pruning can be done during the growing season to maintain the desired shape and size.Toxicity
Dioscorea esculenta is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to handle plants with care and avoid ingestion of any non-edible parts.Additional
Ensure the plant has a support structure to climb on, such as a trellis or stake. This will help it grow upright and make harvesting the tubers easier.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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