This unique and very attractive, perennial vine, Japanese Yam Climbing Vine is prized for its deep green foliage, fall flowers, and medicinally valuable tubers which are formed both underground and on aerial branches. The tubers are reported to have anti-cancer and anti-obesity properties.
Latin Name: Dioscorea nipponica
Site and Soil: Climbing Yams like 1/2 day to full sun and well-drained soil.
Pollination Requirements: Climbing Yams do not require pollination.
Hardiness: Climbing Yams can be grown where temperatures fall to minus 25° F.
Bearing Age: 2-3 years after planting.
Size at Maturity: 8-10 ft. in width on fence, trellis or other support.
Bloom Time: Spring
Ripening Time: Tubers are ready in fall.
Yield: 5-10 lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Climbing Yams are not bothered by pests or diseases.
USDA Zone: 5