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
Patch of Chinese Yam
Patch of Chinese Yam
Chinese Yam leaves
Chinese Yam leaves
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