Dioscorea oppositifolia is a type of yam (Dioscorea) native to Myanmar (Burma) and to the Indian Subcontinent (India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh).
Chinese yam has moderate resistance to disease but can be prone to problems like leaf spot. Its sensitivity to insect pests differs by variety, though most varieties are relatively less resistant to pests. For care, Chinese yam requires regular watering and fertilization, and yellow leaves should be removed frequently. It’s important to manage pests and diseases when they occur and to harvest the plant at the proper time. Chinese yam is best for people who can allocate some time and energy to routine care.
How to keep Dioscorea Oppositifolia.
Light
Chinese yam comes from habitats such as forest understories or rocky sites with natural shade. It prefers partial sunlight but can also tolerate full sun when required. This flexibility enables it to succeed under different levels of sunlight.
Temperature
Chinese yam prefers moderate temperatures, similar to what most people find comfortable. It does best in conditions that are neither very hot nor very cold. The main concern with high temperatures is the possibility of sunburn, so providing some shade in summer is recommended to avoid excessive heat. When temperatures fall, Chinese yam becomes dormant. If continuous growth is wanted, higher temperatures must be maintained through the winter. Frost can damage the plant and should be avoided.
Fertilizer
Chinese yam varieties benefit from one or two applications of organic natural fertilizers containing potassium and phosphorus. Apply the fertilizer before planting, work it into the soil and water thoroughly. Usually a single application is enough, though a second dose can be applied once seedlings are established. Avoid overusing fertilizer to prevent damage to the plants.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb, Vine
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Dioscorea
- Family
- Dioscoreaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 7-11
- Mature Height
- 3.05 m to 6.1 m
- Mature Spread
- 0.91 m to 2.13 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Green, White
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Russia, Sri Lanka, India, Japan, Myanmar, Koppen, Bangladesh, South Korea, China
Other names.
