Chinese Yam

Dioscorea polystachya

non-native


Other Names:
Cinnamon-vine, Japanese Mountain Vine, Korean Yam


Chinese Yam is a fast-growing and fast-spreading invasive vine, outcompeting many native plant species. It is native to China and was introduced to the United States during the 1800s as a food crop and as an ornamental plant. It is eaten extensively in Asian countries. Chinese Yam is most prevalent in moist habitats. It is more tolerant of frost than other yam species, and it can occur in temperate climates as far north as New York. It has spread through much of Virginia.

Identification Tools

Go Botany iNaturalist Invasive.org

Range

North America Virginia

Chinese Yam
Patch of Chinese Yam

Chinese Yam
Patch of Chinese Yam

Chinese Yam
Chinese Yam leaves

Chinese Yam
Chinese Yam leaves

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