Also known as Beadbine · Black Bryony · Black-Bindweed
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Dioscorea communis is a vigorous deciduous climber producing heart-shaped leaves, fragrant greenish-yellow flowers in summer, and clusters of bright red berries in autumn
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct sun but may scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep consistently moist during growth, reduce in dormancy.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-25°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures but protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed lightly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
The berries and roots are toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging. Reduce watering significantly in winter when the plant is dormant.
Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings in spring and summer for optimal health. Ensure good drainage.
Pruning is generally minimal and focuses on removing dead or damaged stems. If the plant becomes overgrown or straggly, it can be cut back in late winter before new growth begins.
This encourages a more compact and manageable form. Wear gloves as sap can be irritating.
Dioscorea communis is typically propagated by division of tubers in early spring before growth starts. Alternatively, seeds can be sown in autumn or spring, but germination can be slow and erratic.
Mature plants also produce bulbils that can be planted.
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound, usually every 2-3 years. This is best done in early spring before new growth emerges. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, with excellent drainage.
Use a well-draining, loamy potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Dioscorea Communis (Dioscorea communis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Dioscoreales |
| Family | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus | Dioscorea |
| Species | Dioscorea communis |
Similar in genus Dioscorea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
