Wild Yam 10 Seeds Dioscorea villosa

Dioscorea villosa, commonly known as wild yam, is a perennial, twining vine native to eastern and central North America, often found in moist woodlands, thickets, and along streambanks. This climbing plant can grow 10 to 30 feet in length, using its slender, green stems to wrap around nearby vegetation for support. Its foliage consists of smooth, heart-shaped leaves with prominent veins, arranged alternately or sometimes in whorls along the stem, giving the vine a lush, ornamental appearance. During summer, wild yam produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are inconspicuous but add to the plant’s subtle charm; these blossoms are borne on separate male and female plants, as the species is dioecious. Following pollination, it forms distinctive winged seed capsules that aid in wind dispersal. Wild yam thrives in partial shade with rich, well-drained soil and consistent moisture, making it well adapted to its natural woodland habitats, and it serves as an important component of the native ecosystem, providing cover and resources for wildlife.