Overview
Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. is a climbing plant species belonging to the family Dioscoreaceae. It is native to the tropical forests of Central Africa and is known for its unique medicinal properties. The plant is commonly known as "Mbole" and "Lumingu" by the indigenous people of Cameroon and Congo, respectively.
Appearance
Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. is a climbing plant that can grow up to 15 meters in length. It has a tuberous root system that can reach up to 2 meters in length and up to 40 centimeters in diameter. The stem is woody with a diameter of about 10 to 20 millimeters and is covered with brown bark. The leaves are heart-shaped with three to five pointed lobes and are about 12 to 15 centimeters long and 10 to 12 centimeters wide.
Uses
The root of the Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. plant has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as asthma, cough, and rheumatism. Recent studies have shown that the plant also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it potentially useful in the treatment of other diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the tuber of the plant is also consumed as a staple food in some parts of Africa. The tubers are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious food source.
Overall, Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. is a valuable plant species with medicinal and nutritional benefits.Light Requirements
Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. grows best in partially shaded areas. It prefers receiving about 50-70% shade during the day. The plant may grow in full sun but such conditions may lead to dry soil, leading to stunted growth and withering of leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This plant has no specific temperature preference, but it thrives best in regions with temperatures that range from 20°C to 22°C. It can, however, withstand temperatures of up to 25°C. At lower temperatures, the plant growth rate may reduce considerably, but it will not wither unless the conditions are entirely unsuitable.
Soil Requirements
Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. requires well-drained, fertile soils that are deep enough to accommodate the root system. The soil's pH should be between 5.5 to 6.5. The soil texture should be sandy loam, loam, or silt loam. The plant is not tolerant of acidic or infertile soils and may not thrive optimally in such conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. is a perennial plant species that is relatively easy to cultivate. The plant requires a well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. It is best to grow Dioscorea pynaertii in areas that receive partial shade or full sunlight. The plant species is propagated either through seedlings or cuttings.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. vary depending on the growth stage of the plant. Young plants require more frequent watering than older plants. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. When watering, it is advised to avoid getting water on the leaves of the plant as this can lead to disease and pest infestation.
Fertilization
Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. requires regular fertilization to support growth and flowering. The plant species is a moderate feeder and should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Slow-release fertilizers can also be used.
Pruning
Pruning of Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. is typically done to remove diseased or dead branches, shape the plant, or control its size. Pruning is best done in the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing. When pruning, use sharp, sterile tools and make cuts just above a leaf node. Cutting too much foliage can affect the plant's growth.
Propagation of Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild.
Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild., also known as wild yam, is commonly propagated through tubers and stem cuttings.
Tubers Propagation
The most common propagation method for Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. is through tubers. Tubers are the potato-like structures that grow underground and can be harvested during the plant's dormant season. These tubers can be stored in a cool and dry place until the time of planting. Before planting, the tubers should be treated with a fungicide to prevent rotting. The tubers should be planted about 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. It is important to keep the soil moist and well-drained to prevent the tubers from rotting. The tubers will start to sprout in about 2-3 weeks and will continue to grow throughout the growing season.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Dioscorea pynaertii De Wild. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. To propagate through stem cuttings, take a cutting from the stem of a mature plant and remove all the leaves except for the top-most one or two. The cutting should be about 6-8 inches long. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Make sure that the soil is kept moist, but not soggy. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment until it develops roots, and then it can be transplanted to its final location.
Disease and Pest Management for Dioscorea Pynaertii De Wild.
Dioscorea Pynaertii De Wild. is a crop that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper management is essential to prevent or minimize the damage caused by these pests or diseases.
Common diseases
Anthracnose: It is a fungal disease that causes brown or black lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruits. It can result in the death of the affected parts of the plant. To manage anthracnose, one should remove the infected parts and dispose of them far from the field. Fungicides such as copper-based compounds can help in controlling the disease.
Yam mosaic virus: It is a viral disease that causes mosaic-like patterns on the leaves and yellowing. It can cause stunted growth and yield loss. To manage this virus, one should use clean planting materials and eliminate the plant's wild hosts. There is no cure for the virus, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Common pests
Yam beetle: It is the most common pest of Dioscorea Pynaertii De Wild. and affects the leaves, stems, and tubers of the plant. The larvae of the beetle tunnel into the plant, causing rotting and wilting. The best way to manage this pest is by regular weeding, crop rotation, and planting resistant varieties. Chemical pesticides can also be used to manage the pest.
Yam nematode: It is a tiny worm that infects the roots of the plant and causes stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing. The nematode can survive in the soil for years, making crop rotation essential for its management. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed, and clean planting material should be used for the next season.
Proper management of pests and diseases is essential for the health and productivity of Dioscorea Pynaertii De Wild. Regular monitoring, sanitation, and cultural practices such as crop rotation and using resistant varieties can help minimize the damage caused by pests and diseases.
