Chinese Yam
Dioscorea polystachya
Also listed as Dioscorea batatas, Dioscorea doryphora
Also known as Cinnamon-vine, Yam, Chinese-potato
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A vigorous climbing vine cultivated for its edible tubers with a starchy, potato-like flavor. Native to Asia, it produces heart-shaped leaves and small greenish flowers, with underground corms harvested in autumn.
Why grow it
Chinese yam offers a productive perennial alternative to annual root crops, with yields comparable to potato but requiring less annual soil disturbance. The vine habit makes efficient use of vertical space in garden systems, and the plant tolerates partial shade better than many starchy staples. Tubers store well and have a milder flavor profile than some Dioscorea species, making them more palatable to cooks unfamiliar with yam varieties.
Watch out for
Tuber harvest requires careful digging to avoid damage, as broken pieces may be difficult to locate underground. The plant's vigor means it benefits from sturdy trellising and may need containment in smaller gardens to prevent excessive spread. Soil should be loose and well-draining to allow proper tuber development and to facilitate harvest without compaction issues.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Dioscoreaceae
Native Range
China, Japan
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Climber
Vines that climb the layers above on a support.
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A vigorous climbing vine cultivated for its edible tubers with a starchy, potato-like flavor. Native to Asia, it produces heart-shaped leaves and small greenish flowers, with underground corms harvested in autumn.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Chinese Yam grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Chinese yam offers a productive perennial alternative to annual root crops, with yields comparable to potato but requiring less annual soil disturbance. The vine habit makes efficient use of vertical space in garden systems, and the plant tolerates partial shade better than many starchy staples. Tubers store well and have a milder flavor profile than some Dioscorea species, making them more palatable to cooks unfamiliar with yam varieties.
Watch out for
Tuber harvest requires careful digging to avoid damage, as broken pieces may be difficult to locate underground. The plant's vigor means it benefits from sturdy trellising and may need containment in smaller gardens to prevent excessive spread. Soil should be loose and well-draining to allow proper tuber development and to facilitate harvest without compaction issues.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Dioscoreaceae
Native Range
China, Japan
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Climber
Vines that climb the layers above on a support.
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
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