dioscorea elephantipes

Hottentot bread, Tortoise plant.

Care level

Medium

The star of this plant is its massive above-ground caudex that looks like an elephant's foot, developing a fascinating cracked bark pattern as it ages. During growing seasons, it sends out delicate climbing vines with heart-shaped leaves that create a beautiful contrast with its chunky base.

Care & maintenance

Light

Bright indirect light

Bright light, usually located near windows but doesn't receive direct rays for more than an hour during the day.

Temperature

Wide range (50°F - 86°F)

Fertilization frequency

Low

Once per season.

Humidity & watering

Low

Allow the soil to dry between waterings.

An ambiant humidity between 30 and 50% is recommended.

Soil

Choose a Succulent and cactus mix: A well-draining blend with coarse texture. Promotes root health by preventing water-logging and mimicking arid natural habitats.

If you want to create your own substrate, you can make a mixture of the following soils:

Click on the soil name for more information.

Pot

Wide/Shallow

Wide/Shallow

Prefer a pot that is wider than it is deep.

Incorrect or incomplete information?

In our goal of building the best plant database, we sometimes make mistakes or have incomplete information. You can help us fill these gaps!

Features

Size & growth

Medium

Climbing

Slow growth

This plant grows slowly. It can reach 1 to 3 feet in height or spread.

It grows upwards by attaching to supports or winding around them.

Toxicity

Toxicity table by species
Cat
Dog
Human
dioscorea elephantipes thumbnail
dioscorea elephantipes thumbnail
dioscorea elephantipes thumbnail
dioscorea elephantipes thumbnail

Reproduction & propagation

Fruits & flowers

Flowering & not self-pollinating

The dioscorea elephantipes can produce flowers and therefore fruits.
This plant is not capable of self-pollination, it will not be able to produce fruits if it is not pollinated by another individual.

Propagation methods

    We use cookies

    We use only essential cookies to ensure basic functionality and provide you with the best experience on our website. For more information, please see our cookie policy.

    For more information, please see our cookie policy.