Dioscorea elephantipes, commonly known as Elephant's Foot or Hottentot Bread, is a truly unique and fascinating caudiciform plant native to specific regions. This slow-growing perennial vine is highly prized for its distinctive, partially exposed tuber-like stem (caudex) that develops a cracked, tortoise-shell-like appearance over time, resembling an elephant's foot. From this impressive base emerges slender, twining vines that bear heart-shaped leaves.
 
Key Features of Dioscorea elephantipes
Massive Caudex: The most striking feature is the large, semi-spherical to dome-shaped caudex that can grow to considerable sizes over many years. Its surface develops characteristic polygonal plates, giving it the "Elephant's Foot" appearance.
Twining Vines: Slender, herbaceous vines emerge from one or more points on the caudex during its active growing season. These vines require support to climb.
Heart-Shaped Leaves: The vines bear attractive, heart-shaped (cordate) green leaves that are typically shed during the plant's dormant period.
Dioecious Flowers: Dioscorea elephantipes is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are produced on separate plants. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and not particularly showy.
Dormancy: The plant undergoes a distinct dormant period each year, during which the vines die back, and the caudex enters a resting phase.
 
Care for Your Dioscorea elephantipes
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight during its active growing season. Some direct morning or late afternoon sun can be tolerated. Protect from intense midday sun.
Soil: Requires a very well-draining potting mix to prevent rot, especially of the caudex. A mix of cactus/succulent soil amended with perlite, pumice, or grit is ideal.
Watering: Water moderately during the active growing season when the vines are growing, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly or withhold water entirely during the dormant period when the vines have died back.
Temperature: Prefers mild to warm temperatures during its growing season. Protect from freezing temperatures.
Humidity: Tolerates average humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Healthy Plant
Support for Vines: Provide a trellis, stake, or other support structure for the twining vines to climb.
Dormancy Management: Respect the plant's natural dormancy. Reduce or stop watering when the vines begin to yellow and die back. Do not be alarmed; this is a natural part of its cycle. Resume watering when new growth emerges.
Repotting: Repot infrequently, only when the caudex has clearly outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger and provides good drainage. Spring, at the start of the growing season, is usually the best time to repot. Be careful not to damage the caudex or roots during repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Treat any infestations promptly.
 
Propagation Methods for Dioscorea elephantipes
Seeds: Propagation is primarily through seeds, which can be challenging to germinate and may take a long time for the caudex to develop its characteristic appearance. Fresh seeds have a higher germination rate.
Division: Propagation by division of the caudex is generally not recommended as it can severely damage or kill the slow-growing plant.
 
Dioscorea elephantipes is a captivating and long-lived plant that offers a unique sculptural presence with its remarkable caudex and twining vines. Understanding its distinct growing and dormant cycles, along with providing well-draining soil and appropriate watering, are key to successfully cultivating this extraordinary botanical wonder.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.