Species water yam
lush-green leaves with green veins and midribs on lime-green petioles and stems

water yam

Dioscorea alata

The Water Yam, (Dioscorea alata) is a truly amazing plant species. Its incredibly hardy nature allows it to grow in a wide variety of climates and soils, and its robustness also enables it to help enrich soils and hold water within them. Its trailing vines can reach upwards of 10 feet and the edible tubers that it produces are highly nutritious, providing vital nutrients to diets all around the world. Furthermore, the plant is a traditional medicine within many cultures, offering a range of treatments. The Water Yam is a truly remarkable plant and deserves all the attention it gets.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Tissue Culture,Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Air Layering Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 11

Flowers:

Yellow-white Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water yam (Dioscorea alata) should be given a deep watering every 7-10 days, or when the soil is dry. Make sure to saturate the entire root ball evenly. During the active growing season, watering can be increased to every 5-7 days, taking care to avoid soggy soil or waterlogged areas. During the dormant season, water can be reduced. If you are in a very hot and dry climate, water can be given more often.

sunlight

Water yam (Dioscorea alata) is a tropical plant species that thrives in full sunlight. It prefers long hours of direct sun, though it can manage with short periods of partial-shade. During the summer months, water yam should receive at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. During the cooler months, it should receive at least 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight. If possible, avoid placing water yam in low-light areas such as shaded corners, as this can impact its growth and development.

pruning

Water yam is a tropical and subtropical plant species that flourishes when its rhizomes, swollen underground stems, are kept moist. It requires regular pruning for proper maintenance and health of the plant. For optimal results, prune water yam in the spring and summer. Start by removing dried leaves and stems, as well as any broken or diseased parts. Cut the plant just above the soil level to encourage new growth. Prune the rhizomes to the ground level to promote thick and lush foliage. If the plant is sprawling, trim away the outer edges of the foliage to maintain a neat appearance. Water yam also requires an annual pruning in the fall to revitalize growth and prepare the plant for winter dormancy. Cut back the stems and foliage to the ground and dispose of the clippings. Do not cut into mature stems or rhizomes, as this will damage the plant. With timely and proper pruning, water yam can remain healthy and attractive for many years.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Water yam typically starts flowering in the months of April and May.

Hardiness Map