Zanzibar yam (Dioscorea sansibarensis)

Also known as: Zanzibar yam, Climbing yam

Dioscorea sansibarensis, also known as the Zanzibar yam, is a species in the yam family native to Madagascar and tropical Africa, ranging from Tanzania to Guinea and down to Mozambique. It's also found in regions like southern Florida as an introduced species. The plant grows from a tuber that can reach up to 40 cm in diameter. Its vine, which can exceed 7 meters in length and 3 cm in width, twines counterclockwise and can climb trees before producing its first leaf. The heart-shaped leaves can be as large as 46 cm long and 58 cm wide, sometimes ending in a tail-like tip. The bulbils, which can grow up to 6 cm wide, are often purplish. In some African cultures, the plant is believed to possess magical properties. Both the tubers and bulbils are toxic.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Zanzibar yam

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb, Vine

Plant Height

7 m

Spread

40 cm

Leaf Color

Dark green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

White

Images of Zanzibar yam

Quickly Identify Zanzibar yam

Identify Dioscorea sansibarensis by its large, heart-shaped leaves which are often over a foot wide. The plant produces aerial tubers and has a distinctive climbing habit, coiling around supports.

Scientific Classification of Zanzibar yam

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Dioscoreales

Family

Yam

Genus

Dioscorea

Species

Zanzibar yam

Planting and Growing of Zanzibar yam

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Zanzibar yam?

When watering Dioscorea sansibarensis, aim to thoroughly soak the soil until water begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root system receives the moisture it needs, while preventing waterlogging by allowing excess water to escape.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Zanzibar yam? ›

What should I do if my Zanzibar yam is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Zanzibar yam? ›

How to save an overwatered Zanzibar yam? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Zanzibar yam?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 3 to 5 hours daily

Partial sun or dappled light conditions are ideal for sustaining healthy growth, providing adequate energy for photosynthesis while ensuring the plant doesn't suffer from sunburn.

What type of light does Dioscorea sansibarensis prefer? ›

How to achieve ideal lighting for Dioscorea sansibarensis? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting for Dioscorea sansibarensis? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Zanzibar yam?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Dioscorea sansibarensis is crucial because it ensures optimal growth and health. This plant thrives best between 68°F and 77°F, where its physiological processes are most efficient. Within this range, photosynthesis and nutrient uptake occur optimally, resulting in robust growth and development.

What Soil is Best for Zanzibar yam?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Dioscorea sansibarensis thrives in well-draining soil. This prevents root rot by allowing excess moisture to escape, which is crucial for the bulbous root structure of this plant to remain healthy and vigorous. Rich in organic matter, the soil should provide the necessary nutrients to support robust growth. Adding compost or aged manure helps boost soil fertility, fostering vigorous foliage and root development. While good drainage is essential, the soil should also retain enough moisture to keep the plant hydrated. This balance can be achieved by using sandy loam, allowing roots to breathe while maintaining consistent moisture.

How to Fertilize Zanzibar yam?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Dioscorea sansibarensis, the fertilizer should be applied at half the recommended strength labeled on your product. This is a tuberous plant, sensitive to over-fertilization, so it's crucial to deliver nutrients gradually. One tablespoon of liquid fertilizer diluted in a gallon of water or a half-spoon of granular fertilizer sprinkled around the base should be sufficient.

How to Prune Zanzibar yam?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin pruning by first identifying any dead or damaged vines on the Dioscorea sansibarensis. Use a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears to make precise cuts at nodes or slightly above a leaf joint. Focus on maintaining the desired shape and size by trimming excessively long vines, encouraging a fuller plant with better airflow and light penetration. While pruning, make sure to remove any weak or crossing vines that could impede the plant's growth or lead to fungal issues. By doing so, you not only improve the aesthetic of the plant but also allow more energy to be directed towards healthy tuber development, ensuring a vibrant, robust plant. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Zanzibar yam plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Summer

Choose healthy, disease-free tubers from a mature Dioscorea sansibarensis plant. Ensure each section you plan to propagate has at least one healthy eye or bud to promote new growth.

Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a blend of potting soil, sand, and perlite. This ensures good drainage and prevents waterlogging, which can lead to tuber rot.

After dusting the cut surfaces with rooting hormone, plant each tuber section in prepared soil. Position them horizontally or vertically with the eyes facing upward. Cover with a thin layer of soil and water lightly.

How to Repot Zanzibar yam plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

You'll know it's time to repot your Dioscorea sansibarensis when you see roots poking out of the drainage holes, the plant looks oversized for its pot, or when growth seems sluggish despite optimal care. These are clear signals that your plant needs room to grow.

Select a new pot that is one size larger than the current one; this allows room for root expansion without overwhelming the plant. Make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which could lead to root rot.

Opt for a well-draining organic soil mix enriched with perlite or sand to enhance aeration and drainage. Such soil prevents water retention, protecting the roots from rot while providing essential nutrients.

Toxicity

Ingestion

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.