Dioscorea cirrhosa
| Dioscorea cirrhosa | |
|---|---|
.jpg) | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Monocots |
| Order: | Dioscoreales |
| Family: | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus: | Dioscorea |
| Species: | D. cirrhosa |
| Binomial name | |
| Dioscorea cirrhosa | |
Dioscorea cirrhosa, commonly known as the dyeing yam, is a species of flowering plant in the family Dioscoreaceae. It is a perennial, dioecious climbing vine native to Southeast Asia.[1][2][3]
Description
Dioscorea cirrhosa is a right-twining vine that grows annually from a tuberous rhizome.[3] Its stems can reach lengths of up to 10 meters. The plant features heart-shaped leaves and is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are borne on separate plants.[3]
Distribution and habitat
This species is native to regions of Indo-China, including northeastern Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, as well as southeastern China (Guangxi, Guangdong), Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the southern Ryukyu Islands (Japan).[1] It typically grows in subtropical forest understories, where it climbs over other vegetation to access sunlight.[2]
Uses
Dioscorea cirrhosa has historically been used as a source of dye. The plant's tuber was once traded internationally for its dyeing properties, making it an important economic resource in certain regions.[3][1]
References
- ^ a b c "Dioscorea cirrhosa". www.asianplant.net. Retrieved 2025-04-07.
- ^ a b "Dyeing yam (Dioscorea cirrhosa)". PictureThis. Retrieved 2025-07-11.
- ^ a b c d "Dioscorea cirrhosa - Useful Tropical Plants". tropical.theferns.info. Retrieved 2025-07-11.