Dr. Yao Cinnamon Vine
Dioscorea batatas
Cinnamon-scented flowers and heart-shaped leaves adorn this vigorous deciduous vine. In the mountains of northern China it produces very large (up to 3' long!), highly prized, white-fleshed tubers with a satisfying, nutty potato flavor - growing for 3-4 years to create multiple large tubers per plant. Vigorous growth each spring will help the plant reach its mature height of 16' quickly each year. Both a productive root crop and an important medicinal ingredient in Chinese traditional treatments. Let your food be your medicine!
While the top dies back each November, the tubers can be left in the ground for several years to keep growing. Prefers full sun in all but the hottest locations, where afternoon shade can help keep the vine looking fresh. Cold-hardy to USDA Zone 7