Dioscorea batatas – Native Plant Search

Native Range

A native plant refers to a species of plant that has naturally evolved and grown in a particular geographic area without any human intervention or introduction. These plants have adapted to the local climate, soil, and ecological conditions over an extended period of time, often thousands of years. Because of this co-evolution with their specific environment, native plants have developed characteristics that make them well-suited to the local ecosystem and provide essential resources for local wildlife.

Native plants play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of an area. They provide food and habitat for native wildlife, support pollinators like bees and butterflies, and contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem. Additionally, native plants often require fewer resources like water and fertilizers compared to non-native or exotic plants that may not be well-suited to the local environment.

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Native Continent

Asia-Temperate

Anhui Sheng, Fujian Sheng, Gansu Sheng (east), Guangdong Sheng (north), Guangxi Zhuangzu Zizhiqu, Guizhou Sheng, Hebei Sheng, Henan Sheng, Hokkaidô, Honshu, Hubei Sheng, Hunan Sheng, Japan, Jiangsu Sheng, Jiangxi Sheng, Jilin Sheng, Korea, Kyushu, Liaoning Sheng, Shaanxi Sheng (south), Shandong Sheng, Shikoku, Sichuan Sheng, Taiwan, Yunnan Sheng (north), Zhejiang Sheng,China

Natural Habitat

Edible Uses

Tuber - cooked. A floury texture with a very pleasant flavour that is rather like a potato. The tubers can be boiled, baked, fried, mashed, grated and added to soups. They store well and for a long time and can also be left in the ground and harvested as required in the winter. This is a top quality root crop, very suitable for use as a staple food. An arrowroot can be extracted from the root, though this is not as good at binding other foods as the starch from D. japonica. The root contains about 20% starch. 75% water, 0.1% vitamin B1, 10 - 15 mg% vitamin C. Fruit. A starchy flavour, it is said to be very good for the health. We wonder if this report is referring to the tubercles. We've heard the aerial tubers can be eaten and are very tasty. Carbon Farming - Staple Crop: basic starch.