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Native Plants Anywhere

Wild yam

Dioscorea villosa

Wild yam
Photo: (c) Michael J. Papay, some rights reserved (CC BY) · iNaturalist

About Wild yam

Wild yam is a real gem for your garden. This native vine produces delicate flowers and attractive leaves that climb gracefully through your landscape. Birds and other wildlife rely on this plant for food and shelter, making it a wonderful way to support your local ecosystem right from home. It's a perennial, so once established, it comes back year after year with minimal fuss.

Growing wild yam is straightforward. It prefers a spot with good drainage and adapts well to various light conditions. Since it's a vine, give it something to climb on like a fence or trellis. Water it during dry spells, especially in its first season. You'll find this native plant surprisingly easy to care for once it gets going. It's a lovely way to bring a piece of your natural heritage into your garden.

Native to 38 states