Origin
Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth, commonly known as Ethiopian yam, is a plant species native to tropical Africa. It is found in various African countries such as Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, Sudan, and Tanzania.
Common Names
The plant has several common names in different African countries. In Ethiopia, it is known as "Buhe," "Anen," or "Enset kello." In Ghana, it is called "Atra," while in Nigeria, it is known as "Akukwo" or "Isu Ewura."
Uses
The roots of Dioscorea schimperiana are rich in starch and are an important staple food in many African countries. The tubers can be prepared in various ways, including roasting, boiling, frying, or pounding. They are sometimes used as a substitute for potatoes or yams.
Aside from its culinary uses, the plant has medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments such as stomach ache, diarrhea, and fever. The leaves are sometimes used to treat skin diseases and wounds.
General Appearance
Dioscorea schimperiana is a vining plant that can grow up to 10 meters long. It has heart-shaped leaves that are 6-15 cm long and 4-12 cm wide. The stem is thick and twisted, and its color can range from green to brown. The plant produces small, white flowers that are arranged in spikes or panicles. The roots are tuberous and can weigh up to 20 kg.
Growth Conditions of Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth
Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth, commonly known as Ethiopian potato, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Dioscoreaceae. This plant is native to Africa and is widely cultivated for its tubers, leaves, and seeds, which are used as food and medicine. To ensure optimal growth of Dioscorea schimperiana, the following growth conditions are recommended:
Light
Dioscorea schimperiana requires bright sunlight to grow well. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, and it is recommended to grow the plant in areas that receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. In areas with high temperatures, some shade may be necessary to protect the plant from excessive heat and sunburn.
Temperature
The optimal temperature range for Dioscorea schimperiana is between 20-30°C. The plant is sensitive to extreme temperatures and cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. To ensure optimal growth, it is recommended to grow the plant in areas with a warm and humid climate, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C during the day and 18-22°C at night.
Soil
Dioscorea schimperiana grows best in well-drained, fertile, and loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 and requires adequate soil moisture to grow well. It is recommended to plant the tubers in mounds or raised beds to improve soil drainage and aeration.
Additionally, the plant requires regular weeding, watering, and fertilization to ensure optimal growth. Proper care and management of the plant can result in a high yield of tubers, which can be harvested after 8-10 months of growth.
Cultivation Methods
Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth is a tropical plant that prefers a warm and humid environment. The plant grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The recommended pH for the soil is between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant also requires partial shade to thrive. Propagation of Dioscorea schimperiana can be done through stem cuttings or seeds. However, stem cuttings are the most common method used in the propagation of the plant. The stem cuttings should be at least 30cm long and have a few nodes.Watering Needs
Dioscorea schimperiana requires regular watering to thrive. The plant prefers moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogging. The frequency of watering depends on the weather conditions, but it is recommended to water the plant at least twice a week. If the soil is dry, it is best to water the plant deeply to ensure that the roots absorb enough moisture. Avoid overhead watering as it can promote fungal growth and other plant diseases.Fertilization
Fertilization is necessary to ensure that Dioscorea schimperiana grows healthy and produces a good yield. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizer application should be done during the growing season, which is typically from March to October. Apply the fertilizer evenly around the plant and water it thoroughly. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to the buildup of salts in the soil.Pruning
Pruning is not a common practice in growing Dioscorea schimperiana. However, it is necessary to remove any dead or damaged stems or leaves to maintain the plant's health. If the plant becomes too big or begins to take up too much space, you can trim it down to maintain the desired size. However, avoid pruning the plant during the growing season as this can cause stress and reduce yield.Propagation of Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth
Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth can be propagated through both vegetative and sexual means. The following are the various propagation methods:
Via seeds
The plant produces seeds which can be used for propagation. The seeds are sown in a prepared seedbed and covered with a thin layer of soil. They should be watered regularly until germination occurs, which usually takes around two weeks. The seedlings can then be transplanted to their permanent location when they are strong enough.
Via tubers
Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth can be propagated via its tubers. The tubers are the underground storage organs from which the plant grows and can be harvested when the plant is dormant. They should be carefully dug up and stored until the next planting season. The tubers should be planted in a well-prepared soil in a sunny location, with the tips pointing upwards, and covered with a thin layer of soil. They should be watered regularly and will begin to shoot in a few weeks.
Via cuttings
The plant can also be propagated using cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the stem of the plant and should be about 20cm long, with at least three nodes. They should be planted in a well-prepared soil, covered with a plastic bag to maintain moisture, and placed in a shaded location. They should be watered regularly until they develop roots, after which they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease Management for Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth
Disease management is an important aspect of Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth cultivation to ensure high yields. Some of the common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes wilting and drying of leaves and stems. It can be controlled through crop rotation, pruning of infected parts, and application of copper-based fungicides.
- Black Sigatoka: This fungal disease causes leaf spotting and leaf death, leading to reduced photosynthesis and stunted plant growth. It can be managed by crop rotation, removal of diseased leaves, and application of fungicides such as chlorothalonil.
- Root rot: This fungal disease affects the roots, causing them to rot and affecting water and nutrient uptake. It can be managed by practicing good drainage and avoiding over-watering, as well as treating with fungicides such as thiophanate-methyl.
Pest Management for Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth
Pests can also have a significant impact on Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth yield and quality. Some common pests that affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects weaken the plant and can transmit viruses. They can be controlled by spraying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck sap from leaves, causing them to yellow and dry out. They can be managed by spraying the plants with water to increase humidity, or by applying insecticides such as abamectin.
- Whiteflies: These insects also suck sap, causing yellowing and stunted plant growth. They can be managed by applying insecticides such as pyrethroids or neonicotinoids, or by releasing natural enemies such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Regular monitoring of the plants, implementation of good cultural practices, and timely treatment with appropriate chemical or biological control measures can help minimize the impact of diseases and pests on Dioscorea schimperiana Hochst. ex Kunth yield and quality.
