Dioscorea rotundata & D. cayenens
Dioscoreaceae (yam family)
Location: Sugar, fiber and root crops
Origin: True yams are grown in tropical areas of the world, especially Africa.
Biophysical Requirements: The plants are vines that climb poles and produce tubers that are similar to potatoes. The crop requires 6 to 10 months warm growing season, ample soil moisture, and fertile well‐drained soils.
Food Uses: Important as a main starchy crop in some countries in the West and Central Africa and Polynesia, and as a minor or starvation crop in parts of Asia and Latin America.