Dioscorea nipponica Seeds | Nippon Yam
LATIN NAME: Dioscorea nipponica
COMMON NAME: Nippon Yam
Plant Profile
Nippon Yam (Dioscorea nipponica) is a handsome, twining, perennial in the yam family, native to woodlands of the eastern Asia, while it grows in open, moist places. In yam family it is heart-leaved climber of the eastern woodlands, a plant whose roots carry the old reputation of the region. Established plants reach around Three metres. For the small amount of care it requires, the return is remarkable.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the yam family, Dioscorea nipponica contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. The Nippon yam roots are a familiar name in traditional plant chemistry of the eastern Asia, and constituents have been examined with greatest care by researchers across the world. With present-day seed handling, raising this species well within the reach of any careful grower.
Uses & Benefits
Nippon Yam works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. In woodland garden, the Nippon yam is twining climber of shaded trellis. Its small flowers feed insects, and broad, heart-shaped leaves give trellis and woodland edge a fine, green cover through the summer. Roots have served traditional ways of region, and yams of world are a fine food of many lands. A plant that has settled in will get along with only routine care.
Yams are a global staple and a medicinal cornerstone: the Chinese yam, Shan Yao, tonifies digestion and lungs in classical formulas, while wild-yam diosgenin was the original feedstock for synthesizing cortisone and early contraceptive steroids, a landmark in pharmaceutical history.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for Nippon Yam, and the process is uncomplicated. Sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly into a loose, well-drained seed compost, water in gently, and keep the sowing in bright light with steady moisture. Shift the seedlings into small pots as soon as they can be handled, and give them bright light until planting-out time.
Our Take
Nippon Yam earns its space through character rather than fuss. Being a handsome, twining, perennial, it asks for a permanent spot and repays it yearly. From then on, routine care is all that is required.
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