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Dioscorea japonica Glutinous yam (1 Page of 5) The Dioscorea japonica plant species is found in E. Asia - C. and S. Japan. It is a member of the Dioscoreaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Glutinous yam. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Dioscorea japonica Common Name: Glutinous yam Family: Dioscoreaceae Author: Thunb. Known Hazards: Edible species of Dioscorea have opposite leaves whilst poisonous species have alternate leaves[174]. Mature Height: Mature Width: Habitat: Wooded foothills[58].
Propagation Notes: Seed - sow March to April in a sunny position in a warm greenhouse and only just cover. It germinates in 1 - 3 weeks at 20°c[175]. Prick out the seedlings as soon as they are large enough to handle and grow on in a greenhouse for their first year. Plant out in late spring as the plant comes into new growth.
Basal stem cuttings in the summer[37].
Division in the dormant season, never when in growth[1]. The plant will often produce a number of shoots, the toop 5 - 10 cm of the root below each shoot can be potted up to form a new plant whilst the lower part of the root can be eaten[K].
Tubercles (baby tubers) are formed in the leaf axils. These are harvested in late summer and early autumn when about the size of a pea and coming away easily from the plant. They should be potted up immediately in individual pots in a greenhouse or cold frame. Plant out in early summer when in active growth[K].
For further Dioscorea japonica gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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