Dioscorea sp. Peru – Rare Climbing Yam with Silver-Variegated Foliage


Dioscorea sp. Peru is a perennial climbing species of Dioscorea, yet to be formally described, collected from Peru. From a perennial rootstock, it sends out annual twining stems that scramble across the ground or climb surrounding vegetation. The foliage is particularly striking: long, narrow leaf blades in deep green highlighted with subtle silver-grey variegation. Its combination of rarity, climbing habit, and ornamental foliage makes it a unique addition to plant collections.
 
● Distinctive Features of Dioscorea sp. Peru


Growth Habit: Perennial rootstock producing seasonal twining stems.
Leaves: Slender, elongated blades in dark green with soft silver variegation.
Habit: Scrambling or climbing growth, ideal for trellises or naturalistic plantings.
Collector Value: An undescribed Peruvian species, highly desirable for Dioscorea enthusiasts.
 
● Natural Origin


This undescribed Dioscorea is native to Peru, where it inhabits forest edges and climbs through surrounding vegetation. Like other yam relatives, it produces a perennial underground rootstock that persists year after year, even as the above-ground stems die back seasonally.
 
● How to Grow Dioscorea sp. Peru


Light: Prefers bright, indirect light or dappled shade.
Watering: Keep evenly moist during active growth; reduce watering once stems naturally die back.
Soil: Requires a loose, well-draining substrate rich in organic matter.
Temperature: Warm-growing; best kept between 18 – 28 °C; protect from frost.
Support: Provide a trellis, moss pole, or nearby vegetation for climbing stems.
Feeding: Apply diluted balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage strong foliage.
 
● Care Considerations


Seasonality: The stems are annual; die-back in dormancy is natural, not a sign of stress.
Growth Rate: Fast once established, producing long scrambling vines each year.
Pests: Occasionally prone to mealybugs or spider mites on tender growth.
Rootstock: The underground tuber should not be overwatered during dormancy.
 
● Why Collectors Seek This Species


Dioscorea sp. Peru is not only rare but also horticulturally unique, offering the lush climbing habit of yams combined with ornamental silver-marked foliage. For collectors of aroids, caudiciforms, or rare climbers, it adds both diversity and intrigue to collections.
 
● Name and Botanical Significance


The genus name Dioscorea honors Pedanius Dioscorides, a Greek naturalist, botanist, and pharmacologist of the first century, known for his influential writings on medicinal plants. The species is still undescribed, hence listed here as Dioscorea sp. Peru.
 
● Frequently Asked Questions


Does Dioscorea sp. Peru form a caudex? No, unlike Dioscorea elephantipes, this species produces a subterranean rootstock rather than a visible woody caudex.
How tall can the vines get? Several meters in a growing season with proper support.
What happens in winter? Stems naturally die back to the rootstock, resprouting in the next growing season.
Is it edible? While related to yams, this plant is grown purely as an ornamental and is not used as food.
 
● Add Dioscorea sp. Peru to Your Collection


For collectors seeking rare climbers with ornamental foliage, Dioscorea sp. Peru is a treasure. With its silver-marked leaves, perennial habit, and scarcity in cultivation, it represents both botanical curiosity and ornamental beauty. Order today and secure this extraordinary Peruvian yam relative for your plant collection.