Dioscorea bulbifera
Dioscorea bulbifera (pronunciation: /diːəˈskɔːriə bʌlbɪˈfɛrə/), also known as the air potato, is a species of yam that is native to Africa and Asia.
Etymology
The genus name Dioscorea is derived from the ancient Greek physician and botanist Dioscorides, while the species name bulbifera is Latin for "bearing bulbs", a reference to the plant's characteristic bulbils.
Description
Dioscorea bulbifera is a perennial vine with broad, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of small, white flowers. The plant is notable for its aerial bulbils, which are used as a food source in some cultures. The bulbils are typically round or oblong and can weigh up to a kilogram.
Cultivation and uses
Dioscorea bulbifera is cultivated for its edible bulbils and tubers in many parts of Africa and Asia. The plant is also used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including rheumatism and inflammation.
Related terms
- Dioscorea: The genus to which Dioscorea bulbifera belongs.
- Bulbil: A small bulb-like structure produced by some plants, including Dioscorea bulbifera.
- Yam (vegetable): A common name for plants in the Dioscorea genus.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dioscorea bulbifera
- Wikipedia's article - Dioscorea bulbifera
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