Origin
Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern. is a species of perennial vine that is native to North America. It is found in the eastern and central parts of the United States and in parts of Canada.
Common Names
Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern. has several common names, including Wild Yam, Colic Root, Devil's Bones, Rheumatism Root, and Yam Root.
Uses
Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern. has been used for centuries by Native Americans to treat a variety of health conditions. The plant contains diosgenin, a compound that can be synthesized into progesterone, a hormone used in birth control pills. It has also been used to relieve menstrual cramps, hot flashes, and other symptoms of menopause.
The root of Wild Yam has also been used as a natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy for women who experience hormonal imbalances during menopause. It can also be used as a natural remedy for digestive problems, such as colic and irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, Wild Yam root is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism.
General Appearance
Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern. is a perennial vine that can grow up to 3 meters in length. It has heart-shaped leaves that are dark green and glossy. The vine produces small, greenish-white flowers in the summer that grow in clusters. The plant's root system is extensive and fibrous, and the roots can grow up to 10 cm in length. The roots are the part of the plant that is used for medicinal purposes.
Overall, Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern. is a versatile plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Its natural compounds have been shown to help alleviate a variety of health conditions, making it a valuable resource for those seeking natural remedies.
Light Requirement
Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia or wild yam requires full sun to partial shade for proper growth and development. This plant thrives well in bright light and can tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. However, too much shade can lead to weak stems and poor growth.
Temperature Requirement
The plant prefers a warm, humid climate. It thrives well in temperatures ranging from 15°C-35°C (59°F-95°F). Frost may damage the plant, so it should be protected during the winter months if grown in areas experiencing frost.
Soil Requirement
The plant requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, but it grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 5.5-7.5. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as excess water can rot the roots. Adding compost or matured manure to the soil can help improve soil fertility, water retention, and drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern. is a fast-growing plant that requires a warm and sunny location. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can grow up to three feet tall and six feet wide, so it requires sufficient space to grow.
Propagation is typically achieved through rhizome cuttings. Plant the cutting in a pot or directly in the ground with the bud facing up. Keep the soil moist, but not soaked, until new growth appears.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for the growth and well-being of Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
The plant is sensitive to overwatering, which can cause root rot and other diseases. It is essential to avoid getting water on the leaves as it can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
In the growing season, feed Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern. every two weeks with a balanced all-purpose fertilizer. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer during the initial planting, and every month during the growing season.
The plant requires an adequate supply of nutrients to grow healthy. However, it is essential to avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive growth and weak stems.
Pruning
Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern. does not require pruning. However, pruning can be done to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. Prune in the late fall or early spring before the plant starts to grow.
Remove any damaged or diseased branches. Cut back any lateral growth to promote a bushier plant. Prune to create a more open plant for better air circulation and light penetration.
Propagation of Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern.
Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia (Bartlett) Fern. can be propagated using several methods:
Seed Propagation
The plant produces small winged seeds that can be collected and sown in pots or directly in the ground. The seeds should be sown during the spring or summer, as they require warm soil temperatures to germinate. The seedlings may take up to three years to mature and produce tubers.
Sprout Division Propagation
The plant can be propagated by dividing the sprouts from mature tubers. The sprouts should be dug up and divided during the spring or summer while they are still soft and pliable. Each division should have a piece of the tuber attached and can be directly planted in the ground or in pots.
Tuber Division Propagation
Propagation by tuber division is the most common and easiest method of propagating the plant. Mature tubers can be dug up during the dormant period and divided into several smaller pieces. Each tuber piece should have at least one bud or "eye" and can be directly planted in the ground or in pots. This method can result in a large number of plants very quickly.
Disease Management
Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia is a robust, disease-resistant plant, but it can be affected by some diseases from time to time. Some of the most common diseases that affect Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia include:
- Root and stem rot: This is caused by a soil-borne fungus that attacks the roots and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended to avoid overwatering, ensure proper soil drainage, and remove infected plant material.
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by a fungal infection and is identified by irregularly shaped white, black, or gray spots on the leaves of the plant. The best way to manage leaf spot is to remove any infected plant material and use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that affects the leaves of the plant. It can be identified by a white powdery substance on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, you can try using a homemade baking soda solution or a commercial fungicide. Additionally, it is recommended to increase ventilation and reduce humidity around the plant to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Dioscorea villosa L. var. glabrifolia can also be affected by some pests. Some of the most common pests that affect the plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause significant damage if left unmanaged. To manage aphids, you can try using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other organic pesticides. Additionally, you can release ladybugs or lacewings, which are natural predators of aphids.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are very small and can be identified by the fine webbing they produce on the leaves of the plant. They also feed on the sap of the plant and can cause significant damage if left unmanaged. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to use a miticide or insecticidal soap and to increase humidity around the plant to discourage their growth.
- Snails and slugs: Snails and slugs are common garden pests that can cause significant damage to the foliage of the plant. To manage snails and slugs, you can try using copper tape, diatomaceous earth, or beer traps, which attract and trap the pests.
