Glutinous Yam (Dioscorea japonica)

Family: Dioscoreaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Dioscorea japonica is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from September to October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). . The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasant mild flavour with a floury texture, the roots can be eaten as a potato substitute. — A very pleasant mild flavour with a floury texture, the roots can be eaten as a potato substitute.; The starch can be used as a binding agent for other foods.; Roots contain about 1.9% protein, 20% carbohydrate, 0.1% fat and 1% ash.; Leaf tips - cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Wooded foothills. Mixed forests and margins, scrub forests, herb communities, mountain slopes, valleys, along rivers and streams, roadsides; 100 - 1200 metres. (Zone 7)