Dioscorea

File:Dioscorea balcanica BotGardBln310505.jpg

Dioscorea balcanica in the Botanical Garden of Berlin

Dioscorea is a genus of over 600 species of flowering plants in the family Dioscoreaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. These plants are commonly known as "yams," although the term "yam" is also used for unrelated tuberous plants in other families.

Description

Dioscorea species are herbaceous vines that grow from a tuber. The leaves are often heart-shaped, and the flowers are typically small and inconspicuous. The plants are dioecious, meaning that individual plants are either male or female.

Distribution

Dioscorea species are found in a wide range of habitats, from tropical rainforests to temperate regions. They are particularly diverse in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Uses

Many species of Dioscorea are cultivated for their edible tubers, which are an important food source in many parts of the world. The tubers are rich in carbohydrates and can be prepared in a variety of ways, including boiling, baking, and frying.

Cultivation

Dioscorea plants are typically grown from tubers or cuttings. They require a warm climate and well-drained soil. The vines need support to grow, and they are often trained to climb trellises or other structures.

Species

Some notable species of Dioscorea include:

• Dioscorea alata - Known as "water yam," it is widely cultivated in the tropics.
• Dioscorea rotundata - Known as "white yam," it is a staple food in West Africa.
• Dioscorea esculenta - Known as "lesser yam," it is cultivated in Southeast Asia.

Related pages

• Yam (vegetable)
• Dioscoreaceae
• Tuber