Jan 19, 2024 · Join us on this yam-tastic journey, and let's uncover the fantastic world these tubers bring to the table, and all about some different types of yams.

Yams are perennial herbaceous vines native to Africa, Asia, and the Americas and cultivated for the consumption of their starchy tubers in many temperate and tropical regions. The tubers themselves, also called "yams", come in a variety of forms owing to numerous cultivars and related species.

In Japan, three groups of this species in cultivation are recognized. The common long, cylindrical type is known as nagaimo (長芋, lit. ' long yam '). The ichōimo (銀杏芋, 'ginkgo-leaf yam') bears a flat, palmate shape, and the tsukune imo (つくね芋) 'meatball yam' is round or globular.

Native Long Yam/Pencil Yam (Dioscorea transversa) Family: Dioscoreaceae. Size: Climbing vine up to 8 metres depending on host vegetation. Description: Slender climbing vine with distinctive heart shaped leaves and 3 winged seed pods. Habitat: Found in rainforests, moist open forests and coastal ranges.

Jun 7, 2021 · These long, slender yams are recognizable by their pale yellow skin and fine, white hairs. Raw nagaimo has a mild, sweet flavor and slimy texture, similar to okra. You can use nagaimo as a topping, garnish, or thickener in salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Jan 12, 2023 · Yams are nutritious and versatile root vegetables. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The benefits of yam consumption include improved digestion, weight management, heart health, and reduced inflammation.

Apr 15, 2025 · This yam is a long yam variety that yields long and slender white-fleshed tubers which are renowned for their unique flavor. The planting of the kahokaho yam used to take place at least a month earlier than all other yams, usually at the end of June.

Jul 12, 2023 · Chinese yam, also known as Dioscorea opposita or Shan Yao, is a versatile tuberous root vegetable that has long been cherished in Asian cuisine for its unique flavor and impressive health benefits.

Long yam, Rainforest long yam, Pencil yam Scientific Name: Dioscorea transversa Family: Dioscoreaceae It is a tropical plant. It grows naturally in monsoonal vine forests. It needs rich, moist soils and a protected, sunny position. It is damaged by drought or frost. It grows from sea level to 1,000 m above sea level. Also known as:

Long Yam. A climbing vine with broad rich green heart shaped leaves, it has a distinctive seed pod. The whitish-brown tuber or yam is located well below ground level. Eaten raw or roasted they taste like potato.