Dioscorea hemicrypta
elephant foot - caudex
Description
Dioscorea hemicrypta is a climbing vine with a caudex. It is native to southern Africa. This plant is notable for its large, underground caudex (swollen stem). This caudex is often partially buried and can take on interesting shapes. The vine produces heart-shaped leaves. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, but the plant's primary attraction is the unusual shape and appearance of its caudex. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade conditions. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, particularly during dormancy. Propagation is usually done by separating offsets from the caudex.
Description
Dioscorea hemicrypta is a climbing vine with a caudex. It is native to southern Africa. This plant is notable for its large, underground caudex (swollen stem). This caudex is often partially buried and can take on interesting shapes. The vine produces heart-shaped leaves. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, but the plant's primary attraction is the unusual shape and appearance of its caudex. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade conditions. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, particularly during dormancy. Propagation is usually done by separating offsets from the caudex.