Dioscorea Sylvatica | Rare Caudex Succulent Vine | Live African Turtleback Plant for Collectors

🌿 Dioscorea sylvatica: Dioscorea sylvatica is a striking and rare caudiciform vine native to southern Africa, prized by collectors for its thick, sculptural caudex and fast-growing, seasonal vines. A member of the yam family (Dioscoreaceae), it is closely related to the famed Dioscorea elephantipes, but features a smoother, more rounded caudex that gives it a unique presence in any rare plant collection. This species is known for its distinct growth pattern: during the active season (typically fall through spring), it sends up beautiful twining vines adorned with heart-shaped leaves. In summer, it goes dormant — the vines die back, and the caudex rests until the next growth cycle. The caudex itself becomes more defined and textured with age, eventually resembling a turtle shell or rounded bonsai stone. Dioscorea sylvatica is ideal for collectors of caudiciforms, bonsai-style succulents, or anyone fascinated by unusual, slow-growing plants that change with the seasons. It’s equally stunning in shallow bonsai pots, handmade planters, or displayed as a sculptural specimen on its own. 🪴 What You’ll Receive: You’ll receive a live Dioscorea sylvatica plant or seed based on your selection. Each one is nurtured slowly in a mineral-rich, fast-draining mix and shipped with eco-conscious delivery. 🌱 Plant Care Tips: Light: Bright indirect light to filtered sun. Outdoors, provide dappled light or morning sun. Water: Water generously during the growing season, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. During dormancy (usually summer), reduce or stop watering completely. Soil: Fast-draining, gritty mix is essential. Use cactus/succulent soil amended with perlite or pumice. Temperature: Keep above 50°F (10°C). Protect from frost. Dormancy Note: The vine will die back during dormancy — this is normal. Resume watering only when new growth appears. 🧡 Why You’ll Love It: ✅ Rare and slow-growing — not commonly found in nurseries ✅ Unique caudex form — develops stunning round texture over time ✅ Vine and caudex combo — offers year-round interest ✅ Perfect for bonsai, display pots, and collectors of oddities 📦 Shipping Info: Ships within 3–5 business days Due to its rarity and limited propagation, this plant is only available in small quantities. If you're building a collection of truly unusual and visually striking plants, Dioscorea sylvatica is a must-have centerpiece.