Origin
Dioscorea lecardii De Wild. var. vera Burkill is a plant native to West Africa, specifically found in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana and Cameroon. It typically grows in the tropical rainforests and on the banks of rivers and streams.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as African yam bean, Banti, Bonja, Ewa, Ngo, Nyimo or Yoruba in various parts of West Africa.
General Appearance
Dioscorea lecardii De Wild. var. vera Burkill is a perennial twining vine with a tuberous rootstock. The vine can grow up to 3 meters long and produces clusters of white or greenish yellow flowers. The leaves are large and heart-shaped with pointed tips, and can grow up to 25 cm long and 20 cm wide. The plant also produces large seed pods that can grow up to 20 cm long and contain oblong-shaped seeds.
Uses
The plant has various uses, both culinary and medicinal. The tubers of the African yam bean are edible and are often cooked and eaten in stews and soups in West Africa. The seeds can also be roasted and eaten as a snack. In addition, the plant is believed to have medicinal properties that can improve digestive health and aid in the treatment of diabetes, hypertension and other diseases. The plant is also used as a shade crop and is often grown alongside other crops such as cocoa and coffee.
Light Requirements
Dioscorea lecardii De Wild. var. vera Burkill thrives well in areas with partial shade to full sun exposure. The plant requires adequate sunlight to facilitate photosynthesis and promote proper growth. This means that the plant can tolerate moderate shade but will perform better with more light availability.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to West Africa, where the climate is tropical and humid. Therefore, it requires warm temperatures to thrive and grow vigorously. The ideal temperature range for Dioscorea lecardii De Wild. var. vera Burkill should be between 20°C to 35°C. Temperatures below 10°C or above 40°C can stunt the plant's growth or even lead to its death.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is suitable for Dioscorea lecardii De Wild. var. vera Burkill. The plant can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the soil must be loose, friable, and aerated to support the plant's vigorous root development.
Cultivation methods
Dioscorea lecardii De Wild. var. vera Burkill, commonly known as Bush Elephant Yam or Chihota, is a tropical plant that is native to Central Africa. This plant requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal location for cultivation is in an area that receives partial shade. Planting is best done during the rainy season when the soil is moist. The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings or by planting tubers.
When planting the stem cuttings, it is essential to ensure that the bottom end of the stem is dipped in rooting hormone powder before planting. The stem should be planted at an angle of 45 degrees and covered lightly with soil. The soil should then be moistened with water, and the plant should be left to grow.
Watering needs
Bush Elephant Yam requires regular watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause the plant to develop root rot, which can be fatal. The plant should be watered twice a week during the rainy season and once a week during the dry season. At the height of summer, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Bush Elephant Yam is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization. A high-nitrogen fertilizer should be applied every two weeks during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied to the soil around the plant, and care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Dioscorea lecardii, as the plant tends to grow naturally in a bush form. However, any dead or damaged stems should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. Regular pruning also helps to promote the growth of healthy stems and leaves.
Propagation of Dioscorea Lecardii De Wild. Var. Vera Burkill
Dioscorea lecardii De Wild. var. vera Burkill, commonly known as "umbo" or "hot water yam," is a starchy and perennial plant mainly found in Africa. Propagation of this plant can be done through the following methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Dioscorea lecardii. One can collect seeds from ripened fruits and plant them in propagation beds or containers, making sure to remove the fleshy cover before planting. The seeds should be sown in a partially shaded area with well-draining soil. Germination typically takes two to three weeks.
Tuber Cuttings
Tuber cuttings can also be used for propagating Dioscorea lecardii. The cuttings must be obtained from mature vines as the young vines may not develop into fully grown plants. Take a portion of the mature tuber with a sharp knife, ensuring that there is at least one bud attached to it. Plant the cutting in well-drained soil, making sure that the bud is facing up. Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering, which may lead to fungal infections. The cutting should develop roots within six to eight weeks.
Air Layering
Air layering involves creating an aerial root on a mother plant and removing it to establish a new plant. This method takes a few months to produce results. A small section of the vine is wounded to encourage root growth. The wound should then be covered with a moist medium and protected from direct sunlight. When the roots have grown to a sufficient length and density, the section of the vine is removed, potted, and kept in a partially shaded area until established.
Division
Propagation of Dioscorea lecardii can also be done through division. To divide, dig up the mature tubers and carefully separate them into several sections. Each of these sections should have at least one bud. Plant the sections in well-drained soil in partially shaded areas, and ensure to keep them well-watered until established.
Disease Management
Dioscorea lecardii De Wild. var. vera Burkill is prone to various diseases caused by fungi and bacteria. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes the leaves to turn yellow and fall prematurely. To manage anthracnose, use fungicides such as copper-based products.
- Black Spot: This disease causes black spots on the leaves. To manage black spot, remove and destroy all infected leaves and use fungicides.
- Leaf Blight: This disease is caused by a bacterial pathogen and causes the leaves to turn brown and eventually die. To manage leaf blight, use bactericides.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a powdery white coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, use fungicides such as sulfur-based products.
It is important to note that prevention is key in disease management. Make sure to practice good plant hygiene and keep the plant well-ventilated and dry to reduce the risk of diseases.
Pest Management
Aside from diseases, Dioscorea lecardii De Wild. var. vera Burkill is also susceptible to pest infestations. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant:
- Mealybugs: These soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and cause stunted growth and leaves to turn yellow. To manage mealybugs, remove and destroy heavily-infested plants and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant's sap and cause yellowing leaves and webbing. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These insects feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing holes and defoliation. To manage caterpillars, manually remove them or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) pesticide.
- Scale insects: These small insects attach themselves to the plant's stem and leaves, causing yellowing and distorted growth. To manage scale insects, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Similar to disease management, prevention is vital in pest management. Ensure that the plant is healthy and well-maintained to reduce the risk of pest infestations. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pests and take immediate action when detected.
