Dioscorea Elephantipes, Turtle Shell - 5 Seeds Pack
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Dioscorea elephantipes is also valued as an ornamental plant for its unique appearance. The stem's unusual shape and texture make it a popular choice for bonsai and other indoor gardening projects.
Dioscorea elephantipes, also known as the elephant's foot yam, is a slow-growing, deciduous, perennial vine native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Dioscoreaceae and is closely related to other yams and sweet potatoes. The plant is known for its unique, thick, woody stem, which is shaped like an elephant's foot, and for its edible tubers.
The stem of Dioscorea elephantipes can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and is usually partially or fully buried underground. The stem is covered in a hard, corky bark that protects it from predators and the elements. The plant produces large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 10 inches in length.
The plant's tubers are edible and have been used as a food source for centuries in South Africa. The tubers are large, often weighing up to 30 pounds, and are covered in a rough, bark-like skin. The flesh of the tubers is white and starchy, with a mild, nutty flavor. The tubers are typically boiled, roasted, or baked before being consumed.