SafePlants

Water Yam (Dioscorea alata)

Dioscorea alata, commonly known as water yam, is a significant staple food crop, particularly in regions like Nigeria and Southeast Asia. It has been used in traditional medicine for over 2000 years and remains a popular ingredient in various culinary dishes.

Considerations for Children:

• Water yam is used as an ingredient in Ojojo (Water yam balls), a popular finger food in Nigeria.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature:

• Scientific Name: Dioscorea alata
• Common Names: Water yam, White yam, Wild yam
• Family: Dioscoreaceae (inferred)

Distribution and Habitat:

• Originates from South-East Asia, specifically Burma.
• Spread to India and is now a common staple food in Nigeria.
• Also grown in Australasia and Polynesia.

Ecological Role:

• Mentioned as disrupting native plant communities, especially by 1996, suggesting invasive potential in some regions.

Morphological Characteristics:

• The tuber shape is generally cylindrical but can vary.
• Tuber flesh is typically white and watery.
• Different varieties can have purple or yellow flesh.

Uses and Cultural Significance:

• Used in traditional medicine for over 2000 years.
• A common staple food in Nigeria and other tropical regions.
• Used to prepare various dishes, including Ikokore (a yam pottage), Ojojo (water yam balls), and as a replacement for maize in diets for laying hens.

Quirky Facts:

• Water Yam is also the title of an artist's book by American artist George Brecht, originally published in Germany in 1963.

Further Information:

• The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan, Nigeria, conducts research on water yam.
• Multimedia resources are available from Encyclopaedia Britannica.