Chinese yam - Plant

Dioscorea batatas is a vigorous climbing plant native to Asia that develops long vines covered with attractive heart-shaped green leaves. One of its most distinctive features is the production of small rounded aerial bulbils that form in the leaf axils and can be used both for propagation and culinary purposes.

In addition to these bulbils, the plant also develops edible underground tubers. Its notable cold tolerance allows it to be grown in many temperate regions where more tropical yam species would struggle. The fast-growing vines make it an excellent choice for covering trellises, pergolas and other garden supports.