Elephant's Foot (Dioscorea macrostachys)

Elephant's Foot, or Turtleback Plant, is a caudiciform vine from Mexico. It develops a massive, above-ground, tortoise-shell-like caudex that can reach several feet across. From the caudex, it sends up annual, twining vines with heart-shaped leaves. The caudex is the main ornamental feature.

Botanical Profile

Growing Requirements

Bright light to part shade and very well-draining soil. Water regularly when vine is active; keep dry when dormant (leafless). The caudex is extremely long-lived. Provide a trellis for the vine. A spectacular, sculptural caudiciform for patient collectors.